Brachychiton populneus, commonly known as the Kurrajong, is a species of flowering tree native to Australia. Here's a description of its key features:
Appearance: Kurrajong trees are typically small to medium-sized, reaching heights of 5 to 15 meters (16 to 49 feet) tall. They have a distinctive growth habit with a spreading canopy and a relatively short trunk.
Leaves: The leaves of Brachychiton populneus are broad and palmate, resembling those of poplar trees, hence the species epithet "populneus." The leaves are typically dark green and glossy, with serrated edges.
Flowers: During the spring and early summer months, Kurrajong trees produce clusters of bell-shaped flowers. These flowers can vary in color from pale pink to deep red and are often tinged with yellow at the base.
Fruit: After flowering, Brachychiton populneus develops woody seed pods that are about 5 to 10 centimeters (2 to 4 inches) long. These pods contain numerous small seeds embedded in a fibrous pulp.
Habitat: Kurrajong trees are well-adapted to a variety of environments, including coastal regions, woodlands, and rocky slopes. They are commonly found in eastern and northern parts of Australia.
Cultural significance: In addition to its ornamental value in gardens and landscapes, the Kurrajong tree holds cultural significance for Indigenous Australian communities. Historically, various parts of the tree, including the seeds and bark, were used for food, medicine, and fiber by Indigenous peoples.
Drought tolerance: Brachychiton populneus is known for its drought tolerance once established, making it suitable for planting in arid and semi-arid regions. However, it can also tolerate occasional flooding and a range of soil types. Hardy in zones 9-12.

Growing Instructions for the Kurrajong

Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the seed coat. The seeds can be sanded with sandpaper, a nail file or an emery board. 2. Soak the seed in water for several hours. 3. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. 4. Put the mixture in a pot with drainage holes in the base. 5. Water the mixture so that it is moist but not wet. 6. Put the seeds on the soil. 7. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. 8. Water the seeds and keep the soil moist but not wet. 9. Place the pots in an area with warm temperatures in full sun or part shade. 10. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.