Queensland Bottle Tree (Brachychiton Rupestris)

Queensland Bottle Tree (Brachychiton rupestris)
A true standout in the landscape, the Queensland Bottle Tree is an iconic Australian native admired for its swollen, bottle-shaped trunk and remarkable drought tolerance. Endemic to the semi-arid regions of Queensland, this tree has adapted beautifully to dry climates, storing water in its trunk and thriving where other trees might struggle. Its unique form and hardiness make it an excellent choice for both public plantings and private gardens.

Key Features

• Sculptural Trunk: With age, the trunk expands into a dramatic, bottle-like shape, creating a bold focal point in any setting.
• Highly Drought Tolerant: Stores water in its trunk, allowing it to survive extended dry spells.
• Deciduous: Sheds its leaves during dry or cold periods to conserve moisture.
• Long-Lived: With the right care, it can thrive for over a century.
• Australian Native: Naturally adapted to Queensland’s variable climate.
• Size: Typically reaches 10–20 metres in height; smaller in cultivation or containers.

Care Guide

• Light: Prefers full sun with a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently. Once established, it requires minimal watering. Avoid waterlogged soil.
• Soil: Best in well-draining sandy or loamy soils. Tolerates poor soil, but good drainage is essential.
• Temperature: Ideal for warm to temperate climates. Mature trees can handle light frost.
• Fertiliser: Use a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring. Avoid heavy feeding.
• Pruning: Requires very little pruning—just remove any dead or damaged branches.
• Container Growing: Suitable for large pots when young. For full trunk development, long-term planting in the ground is recommended.

The Queensland Bottle Tree is a low-maintenance, visually stunning tree that brings structure, resilience, and a touch of the outback to any garden.

The Queensland Bottle Tree is a low-maintenance, visually stunning tree that brings structure, resilience, and a touch of the outback to any garden.

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