Brachychiton bidwillii – Little Kurrajong

Description

Brachychiton bidwillii – Little Kurrajong

Family: Malvaceae
Packet Size: 8 seeds

Description

Brachychiton bidwillii, commonly known as Little Kurrajong, is a compact and variable Australian native shrub or small tree from Queensland. It is appreciated for clusters of striking red to pink bell-shaped flowers that may appear on otherwise sparsely foliaged stems.

Its comparatively small size and ability to withstand dry conditions make it an attractive option for suitable sunny gardens and large containers. Natural plants differ in their mature size, leaf form and flower colour, so seed-grown plants may not look exactly alike.

Key Features

• Flowers: Attractive clusters of pink to red bell-shaped flowers, with shades varying among forms.
• Foliage: Variable green leaves that may be only slightly lobed or more deeply divided.
• Habit: Compact, often multi-stemmed shrub or small tree; size varies considerably among forms.
• Garden uses: Feature shrub, flowering accent and large containers in suitable sunny sites.

Growing Conditions

• Position: Full sun for the best flower production.
• Soil: A range of soils is suitable provided drainage is good.
• Watering: Water regularly until established; older plants generally tolerate dry spells.
• Climate: Suited to warm-temperate and subtropical conditions; established plants can tolerate some frost.
• Pruning: Can be pruned to maintain shape; avoid heavy pruning just before flowering.

Seed Propagation

• Prepare: Clean, viable seeds generally do not need nicking or scratching the seed coat or another special pretreatment.
• Sow: Sow approximately 5–10 mm deep in a light, well-drained seed-raising mix.
• Position: Keep warm and brightly lit, sheltering young seedlings from harsh midday or afternoon sun.
• Moisture: Keep the mix lightly moist but not waterlogged.
• Germination: Germination is often straightforward in warm conditions, although seed quality and temperature affect timing.
• Transplant: Pot up when seedlings can be handled safely and have established roots.

Growing Note: Seed-grown plants may vary in flower colour, leaf shape and final size.