- All
- Product Name
- Product Keyword
- Product Model
- Product Summary
- Product Description
- Multi Field Search
 |
loading
Botanical Name: Brachychiton acerifolius Common Names: Australian Flame Tree, Illawarra Flame Tree Plant Type: Deciduous Flowering Ornamental Tree Visual Signature: Brilliant scarlet bell-shaped flowers on bare branches.
The Brachychiton acerifolius is arguably the most spectacular flowering tree in the Australian botanical portfolio. It is famous for its "magic trick" of shedding its entire canopy of maple-like leaves just before exploding into a sea of vivid, waxy red blossoms. This distinct flowering habit ensures that the fiery color is never hidden by green foliage, making it a world-class landmark tree for large-scale landscapes and botanical collections.
| Availability: | |
|---|---|
| Quantity: | |
Origin and Historical Background: Native to Australia, Brachychiton acerifolius has been widely introduced and cultivated in other tropical and subtropical areas around the world for its ornamental value. It has become a popular choice in many gardens and public green spaces over time.
The standout feature of this species is the intensity of its bloom. In late spring to summer, the tree becomes a solid silhouette of scarlet. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, and grow in large panicles that cover every twig. Because the tree is often deciduous during the flowering period, the visual impact is pure, unfiltered color that can be seen from great distances.
When not in bloom, the Flame Tree is a handsome shade provider. It features a stout, tapered trunk—often greenish when young—and glossy, deeply lobed leaves that resemble those of a maple tree. Its growth habit is naturally symmetrical and upright, maturing into a broad, shady crown that adds significant structural value to parks and wide avenues.
Drought Resilience: Once established, it is remarkably drought-tolerant, utilizing its thick trunk to store moisture.
Temperature: Thrives in warm-temperate to tropical climates. While it prefers heat, it can tolerate light occasional frosts once mature.
Soil: Highly adaptable to various soil textures, including rocky or poor soils, provided there is excellent drainage.
Specimen Planting: Best used as a standalone focal point where its seasonal transformation can be fully appreciated.
Urban Heat Mitigation: Its dense leafy canopy provides deep shade during the hottest months before the flowering cycle begins.
Wildlife Value: The nectar-rich red bells are a primary food source for honeyeaters and various pollinating birds.
This is a low-maintenance, long-lived species. It requires very little pruning and is generally resistant to most pests. For the best flowering display, it should be planted in a position that receives maximum sun exposure.
Health and Environmental Benefits: As a large tree, it plays a role in purifying the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Its canopy provides ample shade, which can help reduce the urban heat island effect in urban areas. Additionally, the flowers attract various pollinators like bees and birds, contributing to local biodiversity.
Care Guide: Brachychiton acerifolius thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well - drained soil. It is relatively drought - tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Pruning can be done to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.
Multifunctional Uses: Primarily used for ornamental purposes, it enhances the aesthetic appeal of landscapes. In some regions, parts of the tree have traditional uses, though these are less common. For example, some traditional medicine practices may utilize certain components of the plant, but it's important to consult professionals before use.
Other Characteristics and Advantages: It has a relatively fast growth rate, allowing it to quickly establish itself in new planting sites. The flowering period is often long - lasting, providing extended visual enjoyment. Its ability to adapt to a variety of soil types (as long as they are well - drained) makes it a versatile option for different landscaping projects.
Origin and Historical Background: Native to Australia, Brachychiton acerifolius has been widely introduced and cultivated in other tropical and subtropical areas around the world for its ornamental value. It has become a popular choice in many gardens and public green spaces over time.
The standout feature of this species is the intensity of its bloom. In late spring to summer, the tree becomes a solid silhouette of scarlet. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, and grow in large panicles that cover every twig. Because the tree is often deciduous during the flowering period, the visual impact is pure, unfiltered color that can be seen from great distances.
When not in bloom, the Flame Tree is a handsome shade provider. It features a stout, tapered trunk—often greenish when young—and glossy, deeply lobed leaves that resemble those of a maple tree. Its growth habit is naturally symmetrical and upright, maturing into a broad, shady crown that adds significant structural value to parks and wide avenues.
Drought Resilience: Once established, it is remarkably drought-tolerant, utilizing its thick trunk to store moisture.
Temperature: Thrives in warm-temperate to tropical climates. While it prefers heat, it can tolerate light occasional frosts once mature.
Soil: Highly adaptable to various soil textures, including rocky or poor soils, provided there is excellent drainage.
Specimen Planting: Best used as a standalone focal point where its seasonal transformation can be fully appreciated.
Urban Heat Mitigation: Its dense leafy canopy provides deep shade during the hottest months before the flowering cycle begins.
Wildlife Value: The nectar-rich red bells are a primary food source for honeyeaters and various pollinating birds.
This is a low-maintenance, long-lived species. It requires very little pruning and is generally resistant to most pests. For the best flowering display, it should be planted in a position that receives maximum sun exposure.
Health and Environmental Benefits: As a large tree, it plays a role in purifying the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Its canopy provides ample shade, which can help reduce the urban heat island effect in urban areas. Additionally, the flowers attract various pollinators like bees and birds, contributing to local biodiversity.
Care Guide: Brachychiton acerifolius thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well - drained soil. It is relatively drought - tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Pruning can be done to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.
Multifunctional Uses: Primarily used for ornamental purposes, it enhances the aesthetic appeal of landscapes. In some regions, parts of the tree have traditional uses, though these are less common. For example, some traditional medicine practices may utilize certain components of the plant, but it's important to consult professionals before use.
Other Characteristics and Advantages: It has a relatively fast growth rate, allowing it to quickly establish itself in new planting sites. The flowering period is often long - lasting, providing extended visual enjoyment. Its ability to adapt to a variety of soil types (as long as they are well - drained) makes it a versatile option for different landscaping projects.
