Brachychiton

Family. Sterculiaceae.

Origin. Australia.

Description. Brachychiton is a genus of 30 or more species of large evergreen trees or shrubs, most of which are native to tropical parts of Australia in drylands or rainforests. The trunk is thick and gray, the leaves are shiny, light green, simple or 3 - 5 lobed, up to 10 cm long. Young leaves are pale green with a hint of pink, which gives the tree an interesting appearance. The flowering of brachychiton looks spectacular. The small bell-shaped flowers are white, pink, red or purple. The flower tube is whitish in color with purple-brown veins. The fruits are hard brown pods with large seeds similar to corn kernels.

Height. In nature, trees reach a height of 10 - 30 meters.

Care at home

Containment temperature

During the growing season, keep in a warm place, in winter - in a cooler place, but the temperature of the brachychiton should not fall below 12 ° C. 

Reproduction

Brachychiton propagates by apical cuttings or seeds. The seeds germinate easily, especially if they are first kept in hot water and then soaked for 12 hours. 

Lighting

In a bright or sunny room.

Care

Trees grown from seeds as indoor plants bloom only after 20 years. To maintain a beautiful and compact shape, the plant requires pruning. 

Flowering time

In cultivation it rarely blooms in early summer.

Pests and diseases

Bottle trees are susceptible to chlorosis in soils with a pH above 8.0.

Insect pests can include spider mites, scale insects and whiteflies.

Substrate

Brachychiton prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils. 

Feeding

In summer, feed every 14 days.

Air humidity

There are no special requirements, prefers ventilated rooms with good air circulation. In the warm season, it is advisable to take it outside.

Soil moisture

Brachychiton should be watered moderately, be sure to avoid stagnation of moisture in winter and maintain a dry regime

Transfer

Even adult specimens can easily tolerate replanting; do it in the spring, every year. 

Note

Crushed brachychiton seeds can be brewed as a coffee substitute or added to bread. The trunk fibers are used in the production of twine. Care must be taken when handling the plant, as the hairs surrounding the seeds can cause an allergic reaction.