Brachychiton acerifolius

Description

A head-turning specimen with a clean 80cm clear stem and a well-formed canopy of deeply lobed, maple-like foliage. The Illawarra Flame Tree brings bold tropical character to sheltered gardens, warm courtyards, and large patio displays — one of those plants that stops people in their tracks when it comes into flower.

Native to Australia, Brachychiton acerifolius is celebrated for its extraordinary clusters of vivid scarlet-red blooms, which often appear before the leaves — exposing the full drama of the flower against bare branches. Out of flower, the handsome foliage and upright, structured form still earn their place in the garden.

Why we love it

• Spectacular scarlet-red flowers in late spring and summer
• Distinctive lobed foliage with real tropical presence
•  Clean 80cm clear stem with a well-developed head
•  Unusual and conversation-starting — rarely seen in UK gardens
• Suits large containers, sheltered courtyards, and warm garden walls

Size

• Pot size: 10L
• Clear stem: 80cm

Best for

• Sheltered courtyard gardens
• Large statement patio containers
•  Sunny south or west-facing walls
• Exotic and tropical-style planting schemes
• Gardens looking for something genuinely different

Growing conditions

Brachychiton acerifolius thrives in a sunny, sheltered position with free-draining soil. It performs best against a warm wall or in a large container that can be moved under cover during prolonged cold spells. In the UK, a south-facing aspect and good winter protection will give it the best chance to establish and flower well.

What makes this batch special

These trees have been selected for their clean stem height and well-proportioned heads — giving them a balanced, structured look from the moment you bring them home. As with all specimen trees, there can be some natural variation in canopy shape, which only adds to their character.

Caragh’s Garden Notebook

The Flame Tree is one of those plants that rewards patience. Once settled into the right spot — somewhere warm, sunny, and sheltered — it can be genuinely spectacular. Use it as a solo statement in a large pot or as a bold focal point in a sheltered border. If you’re not sure where to site it, come and chat to our plant team at the nursery or reach out to us here. We’re happy to help you find the right spot.