Queensland Bottle Tree

The Queensland Bottle Tree, scientifically known as Brachychiton rupestris, is a distinctive and iconic Australian native tree notable for its bulbous trunk and striking silhouette. Its unique shape and resilience make it a favourite in both cultivated landscapes and natural settings.

Evergreen or Deciduous: Semi-deciduous
Mature Height (meters): Typically reaches about 15-20 metres.
Mature Width (meters): Approximately 5-6 metres.
Spacing: Plant at least 8 metres apart from other trees or structures to accommodate its broad trunk and ensure sufficient exposure to sunlight.
Foliage: Features narrow, elongated green leaves that may drop during periods of drought to conserve water.
Flowering Period: Produces small, bell-shaped, creamy-white to pale pink flowers usually in late spring or early summer.
Fruit: Develops woody, boat-shaped seed pods that are ornamental and persist on the tree for a long period.
Form/Habit: Notable for its swollen trunk which is used for water storage, topped with a sparse canopy of foliage, creating a unique and picturesque form.
Uses: Primarily used as a feature or specimen tree in gardens, parks, and large landscapes. Its drought tolerance and distinct appearance also make it suitable for xeriscaping and arid garden designs.
Sun: Prefers full sun to thrive and develop its characteristic trunk shape.
Maintenance: Very low maintenance; requires minimal pruning other than to remove any dead or diseased wood.
Water Requirement: Low; extremely drought-tolerant due to its ability to store water in its trunk, making it ideal for dry climates and water-wise gardens.

The Queensland Bottle Tree is admired for its remarkable form and its ability to thrive in challenging environments, making it a practical and visually appealing choice for gardeners and landscapers looking to introduce an element of the Australian outback into their planting schemes.