Consulta Plantas

Care of the tree Brachychiton populneus or Kurrajong

The genus Brachychiton, family Malvaceae, comprises 30 species of shrubs and trees native to Australia. Some species are: Brachychiton populneus, Brachychiton discolor, Brachychiton acerifolius, Brachychiton bidwillii, Brachychiton rupestre.

Common names: White-flower kurrajong, Bottle tree, Black kurrajong, Northern kurrajong. This species is native to Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland (Australia).

They are trees that reach 10 meters (32.8 feet) in height. They have dark green leaves and ovate-lanceolate shape. The flowers are bell-shaped and have no petals but a white or pink calyx. They bloom in early summer.

White-flower kurrajong is used as isolated specimens in gardens and in public streets and parks (in Barcelona there are quite a few specimens). Australian aborigines used its seeds as food and its wood and bark to make utensils. The capsules of its fruits are used to make floral decorations.

Brachychiton populneus needs sunny exposure and is ideal for regions with a Mediterranean climate. It resists occasional frosts and short periods of drought.

Black kurrajong can be grown in well-drained garden soil with coarse sand.

Water moderately, increasing waterings in summer and reducing them in winter.

Fertilize with compost in the fall.

Bottle tree does not need pruning.

Brachychiton populneus is a fast growing tree resistant to pests and diseases.

Northern kurrajong propagates easily by seeds sown in spring.

Images of the tree Brachychiton populneus or Kurrajong