Related Topics: Trees (general) Shrubs (general)

Brachychiton

species, hybrids and cultivars

The Illawarra flame tree (Brachychiton acerifolius) is popular around SE Qld for its spectacular red floral display in early summer (some years better than others), after losing all or most of its leaves.

It has a natural upright form which is is not really suitable for pruning. Note butchered specimens planted underneath power lines. If you need a small tree, select something else.

Another famous member of the genus is the Queensland Bottle Tree (Brachychiton rupestris) with its swollen trunk. However, there are a number of other Brachychiton species occuring in Australia. The Little Kurrajong (Brachychiton bidwillii) is a shrub.

The genus Brachychiton was featured in the 27-02-2026 edition of Get Results Gardening, a weekly publication for Australians via email. When you request a free trial (go calyx.com.au/getresultsgardening.html for more information), you can also ask for a copy of the 27-02-2026 edition if you want to see the Brachychiton article (Australian residents only).

News

New bottle trees for heroes

Four Roma bottle trees requiring removal due to poor health will be replaced in time for Anzac Day. Two of the trees are in Heroes Avenue and the plaques will be retained and associated with the new trees, continuing the tradition of the memorial. Source: Bottle tree removal in Roma - this Saturday & Sunday (February 2017)

Brachychitons in the Landscape

  
  

  
  

Warning: collection, destruction, propagation, movement, sale or purchase of any Australian native plant (including seeds or spores) may be subject to laws and regulations. Be sure to check with appropriate authorities before engaging in these activities, even on private property. Other laws may also apply to the treatment and movement of plant or soil material (for example, to control the spread of weeds, pests and diseases.)

More images will be added over time, but in-depth, high-quality information is now being reserved for the email publication (mini-magazine) Get Results Gardening. This is due to the decline of online advertising and the rise of content appropriation by artificial intelligence programs and others. If you live in Australia and would like to see a copy of the 27-02-2026 edition, which contained an article about Brachychiton, ask for it in the body of your email message when you request a free trial. More information here: calyx.com.au/getresultsgardening.html