Brachychiton rupestris

Brachychiton rupestris or Queensland Bottle Tree is an icon of the Queensland Outback that does well in our Bay Area gardens. The "Beer Belly" truck will show with some time in the ground as it absorbs moisture during the winter rains. The leaves also transition in shape as the tree matures, so there's never really a dull moment. with this character.

What a huggable tree! An outlandish succulent trunk is the stand out feature of this easy to grow tree from Australia. Drought tolerant, accepting of a wide range of soils (EVEN CLAY) & staying under 30' in cultivation, it's fun choice for a street or garden tree in USDA Zone 9 & up, & because mature trees of this species can be easily transplanted - staying out of the ground for up to 3 months is no problem - you can take it with you - even if you rent! What a catch! Leaves are varied, but generally long & elliptical, & it sports curious & lovely bell shaped yellow flowers in spring, followed by "boat shaped" fruits. In its first two years of growth, a "Queensland Bottle Tree" can grow up to 6', but the trunk doesn't begin to swell until after year three. A full grown tree can be up to 40' tall with a 30' canopy, & the wide trunk can grow up to 6' in diameter. This Buddha-bellied tree is also well-suited to container culture & can be used as bonsai specimen as well!