Narrow-leaved Bottle Tree - Brachychiton rupestris

Brachychiton rupestris, commonly known as the narrow-leaved bottle tree, is a deciduous tree native to Australia. It belongs to the Malvaceae family, which includes hibiscus, cotton, and okra.

The tree typically grows to a height of 8-12 meters, with a distinctive bottle-shaped trunk that can reach a diameter of 2 meters. The trunk is covered with a thick layer of fibrous bark, which helps the tree to retain water during periods of drought. The narrow, lance-shaped leaves of the tree are around 10-20cm long and have serrated edges.

Brachychiton rupestris produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers, which are usually red or pink in color and appear in late winter or early spring. The flowers are followed by woody seed pods that can be up to 20cm long and contain numerous small seeds.

The tree is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, particularly in arid regions of Australia, as it is very drought-tolerant. It is also a popular choice for bonsai cultivation.

The indigenous people of Australia have traditionally used the bark of the Brachychiton rupestris tree for medicinal purposes, including the treatment of skin conditions and digestive problems. The wood of the tree has also been used for various purposes, including making boomerangs and digging sticks.