Brachychiton
Brachychiton rupestris (and other spp.)
Brachychiton is a distinctive Australian tree known for its dramatically swollen, bottle-shaped trunk that stores water. Its architectural form makes it a striking specimen for water-wise landscapes.
Malvaceae (formerly Sterculiaceae)
Spring to early summer (B. rupestris blooms rarely until mature)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: cactus (prickly pear)s and desert roses also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The Bottle Tree is an iconic symbol of the Australian outback and adaptation to harsh, dry conditions. Aboriginal Australians traditionally used various parts for food, water storage, and crafts. The swollen trunk represents nature's ingenious water storage system and has made it a symbol of sustainable, water-wise landscaping.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun for best trunk development and health
Water
Extremely drought-tolerant once established; minimal water needed; avoid overwatering
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Tolerates poor soils, Neutral to slightly alkaline
Expert Growing Tips
Excellent drainage is critical to prevent root rot
Water deeply but infrequently during establishment
Drastically reduce watering once established
Slow-growing; be patient for trunk to develop
Prune in late winter to shape and open canopy
Avoid planting near pools (seed pods create litter)
Handle seed pods with gloves (irritating hairs)
Susceptible to Texas root rot in affected areas
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specimen tree for architectural interest
- Water-wise and drought-tolerant landscapes
- Street tree and median plantings
- Large containers (when young)
- Bonsai (B. rupestris)
- Shade tree in arid climates
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Brachychiton
why is it called a bottle tree
The Brachychiton rupestris is called a bottle tree because of its distinctive swollen, bottle-shaped trunk. This adaptation allows the tree to store thousands of liters of water to survive long droughts.
how long does it take for a bottle tree to develop its trunk
A bottle tree's characteristic swollen trunk develops slowly over many years. Young trees have slender trunks, and it can take 10-20+ years for the trunk to develop its full bottle shape.
are bottle trees messy
Bottle trees can be somewhat messy due to leaf drop and large woody seed pods covered in irritating hairs. They're not recommended near pools or high-traffic areas where cleanup is critical.
can you grow a bottle tree indoors
Young Brachychiton can be grown indoors in bright light as container plants or bonsai specimens. However, they eventually need outdoor conditions to reach their full potential and develop the iconic trunk.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Desert Rose
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