Kurrajong, Bottletree, Kurrajong

Brachychiton populneus

Physical Characteristics

Brachychiton populneus is an evergreen Tree growing to 18 m (59ft) by 18 m (59ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to July. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Australia - New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, Victoria

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary; Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seed Edible Uses: Coffee Seed - raw or roasted[144, 154, 183]. A popular Aboriginal food, they are also acceptable to western palates, especially when roasted[193]. Very nutritious, containing about 18% protein, 25% fat plus high levels of zinc and magnesium[193]. The roasted seed is used as a coffee substitute[144, 183]. Root - yam-like[144, 154]. A popular food item with the Australian Aborigines[183]. The root of very young trees is used[193].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known