Illawarra Flame Tree

The Illawarra Flame Tree, scientifically known as Brachychiton acerifolius, is a large, spectacular tree native to subtropical regions on the east coast of Australia. It is widely renowned and celebrated for its remarkable flowering habit, during which the tree sheds all of its green foliage and becomes entirely covered in brilliant, bell-shaped red flowers, creating a stunning visual impact in landscapes. Belonging to the Malvaceae family, this tree typically grows to a substantial height with a symmetrical, canopy-forming shape. It features glossy, deeply lobed leaves when in leaf, and produces large, woody seed pods containing edible seeds that were historically utilized by Indigenous Australians. It is a very popular ornamental specimen planted in parks, large gardens, and urban streetscapes around the world due to its incredible seasonal display and moderate adaptability to various growing conditions.