Light Colour Shade: Summer Colours: Red. Flowering Trees, Flame Tree (Brachychiton Acerifolius)

6 November 2012

Summer Colours: Red.
Flowering Trees, Flame Tree (Brachychiton Acerifolius)

Brachychiton acerifolius, commonly known as the Illawarra Flame Tree, is a large tree of the family Malvaceae native to subtropical regions on the east coast of Australia. It is famous for the bright scarlet red bell-shaped flowers that often cover the whole tree when it is leafless. Along with other members of the genus Brachychiton, it is commonly referred to as a Kurrajong.

The flowers with 5 partially fused petals resemble baroque lampshades. The pod-like dark brown boat-shaped fruits (technically known as follicles) contain masses of thin bristles that stick in the skin, as well as yellow seeds which are nutritious and were eaten by Aborigines after toasting.
When in full bloom this splendid tree is an expression of joy of life that brightens up any view. If I had my way, I'd plant this tree in every street.