Brachychiton is a genus native almost exclusively to Australia. Often known as bottle trees, many species have swollen trunks that store water, similar to a baobab. They are also sometimes known as Kurrajong. All species have interesting flowers, but a few are spectacular.
Bottle trees, like most Australian trees, tolerate heat and drought well, growing well even in the Imperial Valley. Frost hardiness is a concern for most species, but a few are moderately hardy.
The only tree seen locally with any regularity is B. populneus. It is among the most hardy species and seems fairly proven here. Other species, like the spectacular B. acerifolius, might be more marginal, but should probably be trialed.
Bottle trees, like most Australian trees, tolerate heat and drought well, growing well even in the Imperial Valley. Frost hardiness is a concern for most species, but a few are moderately hardy.
The only tree seen locally with any regularity is B. populneus. It is among the most hardy species and seems fairly proven here. Other species, like the spectacular B. acerifolius, might be more marginal, but should probably be trialed.