Brachychiton populneus

The name was derived from the heart-shaped leaves it arrived with to Israel that are similar to poplar leaves. Since then the Brachychiton populneus has produced a great diversity in new generations that were grown in Israel. As a result of propagation from seed and hybridization of varieties. the Brachychiton populneus shows a lack of uniformity among specimen in size and canopy shape, shape of the leaves, color of the bloom and even color of the trunk. Therefore, the Brachychiton populneus underwent quite a lot of changes since its arrival in Israel. Its new varieties are adapted to the conditions in Israel, but as mentioned, show a great variety among them. Therefore, grafting is recommend for a more uniform result. About 20 years ago, the first variety of Brachychiton populneus was selected and isolated in Israel and it was called Brachychiton populneus ‘Aleh Komfor’ (distributed by Givat Brenner Nursery). There are dozens additional strains that have not been isolated yet. Brachychiton populneus is a very close sibling of the Brachychiton rupestris and in some varieties of the populneus you can see the great similarities of their features. Clear proof of that is the Brachychiton gregorii. His features make it one of them. The appearance and the form of the leaves can be identical to that of Brachychiton rupestris. but the trunk is not bottle-shaped and it is therefore considered closer to Brachychiton populneus. It is region of origin in Australia, the tree reaches a height of more than 20 m. In Israel, mature trees grow to a maximum of not more than 12 m, but there are specimen that reach 15 m and even more (Ilanot Botanical Garden). When the tree is young, the tree shows apex dominance which contributes to the pyramidal shape. As the tree reaches maturity, this features disappears and the tree’s shape becomes oval. The canopy reaches a diameter of 8 m. The thickened trunk ranges in color from green to gray shades and in some cases red-brown. The color of its leaves is bright green and the tap roots grow downwards. The Brachychiton populneus grows at a medium-fast rate and is considered sturdy, resistant and strong. It is very resistant to diseases, pests and air pollution. Additionally, it has a high resistance to dry and cold conditions. This is the reason why it is suitable for growing in all areas of the country – even the less temperate – including the high mountains on one side and the Aravah desert on the other side. It requires relatively little watering. It only requires little water until it is established. The trunk and the roots have the ability to store water. Its growth rate, especially during the first years, is affected by the type of soil and the amount of water. When planting this tree on the sidewalk, make sure that the soil in the planting hole is not too compacted which might interfere with the downward growth of the roots. Compacted soil that will influence the natural growth direction may lead to the lifting of the pavement. And in any case, the tree is more comfortable in well drained soil that prevents water accumulation and the risk of rotting.

Brachychiton populneus is very sensitive to excess water and lack of drainage. The leaves will react with chlorosis and the trunk will ooze resin and the situation might very well lead to the death of the tree. The flowers of the tree are yellow/rose-colored and have the shape of tiny bells. Flowering season is spring in form of flower clusters. The pods are of boat-shaped (which is typical for the Brachychiton) and dark-brown/red. The seeds are large and hairy, which might be irritating on contact, so caution is recommend. The flowers contain a lot of nectar and are useful in the honey industry. In the past, the grounded seeds were used as a substitute for coffee or as an addition to bread flour. Indigenous Australians used to pick and eat the seeds, they used the trunk to make shields and rope fibers from the bark.

Others in the family: Brachychiton acerifolius | Brachychiton pink acerifolius | Brachychiton australis | Brachychiton discolor | Brachychiton rupestris | Brachychiton populneus | Brachychiton populneus ‘Aleh Komfor’