Brachychiton - Plant Encyclopedia Results

In regions with colder climates, Grown in USDA Zone 9-11, it is possible to grow Brachychiton bidwillii in a pot. The roots of this plant are very vulnerable to cold temperatures and should be protected during winter. When potted, select a pot big enough to hold the plant, soil and roots comfortably and use a potting mix that is comprised of two parts soil, two parts sand and one part compost. Brachychiton bidwillii should be positioned in full sun and watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry between watering. The plant should be allowed to enter a dormant period during the winter months, during which time the watering should be reduced. Prune Brachychiton bidwillii as needed to shape its size and form, but be aware that pruning too heavily may reduce the flowering potential of the plant.

Brachychiton bidwillii is a native of Australia and has small, green leaves. It's an evergreen species which can reach a height of 10-20 ft. It has reddish to crimson and vinous coloured flowers which are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds during their blooming period. The kind of flower displayed depends on the form of the plant. It can be used for Bonsai. Its trunk is covered in a brown, corky bark that is used by some aboriginals for canoes and other items. The caudex (trunk) of the plant is swollen and can store large amounts of water in its fleshy stems. This is a benefit to the plant in drought conditions.

Brachychiton discolor, commonly known as the Lacebark Tree or Pink Kurrajong, is a striking deciduous tree native to eastern Australia. It is best known for its spectacular display of soft pink, bell-shaped flowers that cover the branches when the tree is leafless, creating one of the most memorable floral displays among Australian trees. Mature specimens typically reach 30-50 feet in height and develop a broad canopy supported by a sturdy trunk.

The large leaves are dark green above and densely covered with pale felt-like hairs beneath, giving the foliage a distinctive silvery appearance when stirred by the wind. The bell-shaped flowers are especially distinctive because their outer and inner surfaces differ dramatically in both color and texture. The exterior is densely covered with pinkish felt-like hairs, while the interior is smooth, silky, and much paler, creating a striking two-toned effect reflected in the species name discolor. Flowering usually occurs from late spring into summer, followed by woody seed pods containing bright yellow seeds surrounded by irritating hairs. The species is well adapted to drought once established and performs best in full sun and well-drained soil. Suitable for USDA Zones 9b-11, Brachychiton discolor is valued as an ornamental shade tree and can tolerate periods of heat, dryness, and poor soils better than many flowering trees of comparable size.

Grown successfully in USDA Zone: 9-11, the Brachychiton populneus (Bottle Tree) is a plant native to Eastern Australia. It can be used for bonsai, as it is a big tree, growing taller than 20 feet, and has attractive lobed leaves. The trunk is commonly swollen, as well as the taproot, giving an interesting bottle-like look to the tree. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, this species develops white or off-white, bell-shaped flowers with inner tubes that are streaked with purple-brown. Some hybrids can present pink or red blooms. The fruit of the Bottle Tree are woody and boat-shaped, surrounded by fine hairs that can cause skin and eye irritation, so care must be taken with them.

The Bottle Tree is an evergreen species and does best when grown in full sun, however it also tolerates some shade. It requires regular watering, but is quite resilient and tolerant of dry conditions. It is also easy to propagate from seed or from cuttings from desirable plants which can be grafted onto seedling rootstock. The transplantation must be done with care, protecting the swollen taproot from damage.

In cold regions, the Bottle Tree must be potted and taken inside during cold months. It is mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time. The foliage is glossy-green and dense, making it a good option for street trees and to create shade as well as to provide a source of food for animals. The gum exudate is edible, and the swelled, carrot-like taproot is a nutritious vegetable. The species is also attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, making it a nicely multi-functional plant.

In cooler climates, Brachychiton rupestris can be grown in a pot if it is kept in a sunny position and watered regularly. The soil should be well drained and a slow release fertilizer applied in spring. If the temperature drops below zero, the pot can be moved to a sheltered area or moved indoors. The plant should be kept in a bright and sunny location, but sheltered from the wind. The pot should be watered regularly during the growing season and fertilized every few months. In winter, the plant should be kept dry and only watered occasionally. Pruning can be done to shape and maintain the size of the plant and to remove any dead or damaged branches. With careful attention, the bottle tree can be used as a Bonsai specimen. The bottle shaped trunk may start to be noticeable at around 5-8 years of age. The bell-shaped flowers are yellowish in clusters at the ends of the branches but are not especially conspicuous. The flowers are followed by seed capsules which contain many large seeds.

Overall, the Queensland Bottle Tree is an attractive, unusual and easy to grow plant.

Rainforest tree. This spectacular Australian tree is often conical in shape with dark green glossy leaves, deeply lobed when young. The upper trunk is green. Bright red bell flowers occur when the tree is wholly or partly deciduous, and are followed by thick black pods. Very conspicuous in flower in gardens and in the rainforest.

A fast growing shade deciduous tree. Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping.