Illawarra flame tree

The Illawarra flame tree (Brachychiton acerifolius) is a striking flowering tree for a temperate to tropical garden. It is native to Australia’s east coast from Far North Queensland to the New South Wales south coast. It is grown as a feature tree in large gardens or as a street tree for its red flowers in mid-spring to early summer.

The tree is famous for its stunning show of bright red, bell-shaped flowers that appear in large clusters (panicles) at the ends of its branches. This floral display is particularly dramatic because it often occurs when the tree is leafless, making it look like the entire crown is on fire.

Trees eventually grow to 10m x 6m in size (but can be larger) and are often planted with other vibrantly coloured flowering trees, including jacaranda and silky oak.

Before flowering, Illawarra flame trees discard leaves. Sometimes the whole tree is briefly deciduous, sometimes only part of the tree is leafless. The red, bell-shaped flowers appear on bare stems and are highly attractive to nectar-feeding birds such as parrots. The shiny green leaves are large and lobed.

Trees grow easily from seed, which are held in large seed pods, but may be slow to flower (can take 10 years). Take care when handling seed pods and seeds as they are encased in hairs that can cause skin irritation. For faster flowering, buy an advanced potted tree.

The Illawarra flame tree also has its roots deeply connected with Indigenous Australians. The seeds were consumed as a rich source of protein, the inner bark was used to make string, fishing nets and traps, making it a complete economic package!

Besides the red flowering variety, there are also varieties with pink flowers, such as Brachychiton Bella Pink. A tree to suit small gardens or as a stunning feature in a larger garden, it has a compact, round canopy and semi-deciduous habit, shedding some foliage before creating a beautiful pink flowering display in late spring and summer. 

Growing Conditions

Aspect The Illawarra flame tree needs a bright, sunny location, but as a rainforest tree, it also benefits from some shade during the day. It also benefits from protection from strong, drying winds and the hot sun.

Soil These trees grow in a wide range of soils with reliable moisture, but good drainage and neutral to slightly acidic soil. Before planting, add home-made compost and organic matter and/or Seasol Super Compost.

Climate The Illawarra flame tree needs a warm, frost-free temperate to tropical climate with warm temperatures and moderate rainfall. While younger trees can’t tolerate frost, mature trees can handle a slight frost..

General care

Watering Water regularly when plants are young, especially through summer or in prolonged dry periods, to encourage good growth. Established trees are drought-hardy. To keep the Illawarra flame tree healthy and happy, regularly apply Seasol to build strong roots and overall plant health.

Feeding and mulching Seasol plus Nutrients All Purpose including Natives, is perfect for the Illawara flame tree. Add to the soil at planting and during spring, summer and autumn until plants are well established. You can also boost growth at any time of year with liquid PowerFeed All Purpose including Natives. Apply from the trunk out to the canopy edge.

Mulch with organic mulch such as leaf mulch (keep the mulch away from the tree trunk).

Pruning Naturally elegant with a central leader. Little pruning is needed except for shaping the tree, promoting its health, and enhancing its appearance. Prune in late winter to spring, just before new growth.

Watch out The Illawara flame tree is quite resistant to pests and disease. However, it can be attacked by a pest known as the kurrajong leaf tier, which is a green caterpillar that can defoliate leaves. Watch out for clusters of leaves tied together with silky webbing. These clusters provide shelter for the caterpillars, which congregate together and hide during the day. They emerge and feed at night. To control, remove the bag during the daytime (take care as these caterpillars have irritating hairs that may cause itchiness).