Dissected-leaf Flame Tree
brachychiton discolor
Also known as: ["Flame Tree","Dissected-leaf Kurrajong"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Australia, known for its striking pink to red flowers and deeply lobed leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Brachychiton |
| Botanical Name: | Brachychiton discolor |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include some organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula for overall health.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist, and wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take several weeks to months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning to shape the plant; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, and cover roots with mulch for insulation.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, use diluted fertilizer, apply during active season, avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBrachychiton discolor is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a known risk of toxicity to felines through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicBrachychiton discolor is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicBrachychiton discolor is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Brachychiton discolor require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is this plant suitable for tropical climates?
A: Yes, it is well-suited to tropical and subtropical regions.
Q: How tall does Brachychiton discolor grow?
A: It can reach heights of 10–15 meters in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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