Brachychiton populneus

Brachychiton populneus, commonly known as the kurrajong, is a small to medium-sized tree found in Australia. It is a member of the family Malvaceae and is widely distributed on the eastern coast of Australia. Its range extends from central Queensland, through New South Wales and into Victoria.

Description

Brachychiton populneus is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. The bark is smooth and grey, often with vertical fissures. The leaves are alternate, with a long petiole and a variable shape. They can be either simple and lanceolate, or deeply lobed with up to seven lobes. The flowers are bell-shaped, with five lobes and are followed by woody, boat-shaped fruits.

Ecology

The kurrajong is a hardy tree that can tolerate a range of conditions, including drought and frost. It is often found in dry rainforest or forest margins. The flowers are pollinated by various insects, and the seeds are dispersed by gravity.

Uses

The kurrajong has several uses. The seeds are edible and were a food source for Indigenous Australians. The bark was used for making rope and the wood for making tools. Today, it is often planted as a street or garden tree due to its attractive foliage and tolerance of a range of conditions.

Cultivation

Brachychiton populneus can be grown from seed, which should be soaked in boiling water before sowing. It prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. It is a relatively slow-growing tree, but can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.

See also

• List of Brachychiton species
• Flora of Australia