Brachychiton acerifolius x bidwillii 'Red Robin'Red Robin Flame Tree

The Brachychiton acerifolius x bidwillii 'Red Robin' is a garden hybrid between the Illawarra Flame Tree and the smaller Queensland lacebark, bred to hold the scarlet flowering of the first at a size that fits a street or a courtyard. Bell-shaped flowers open in dense clusters on bare or near-bare wood in late spring and early summer, and the swollen trunk base of the genus develops with age.

It is used as a feature and avenue tree in urban work where a full-sized flame tree would outgrow the space.

Specifications

• Height5 to 8 metres
• Width3 to 5 metres
• Native toHybrid cultivars derived from Brachychiton acerifolius and Brachychiton bidwillii, both Australian
• FoliageGlossy green, variably lobed leaves; briefly deciduous before and during flowering
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained soils; tolerates a wide range including clay once established
• LightFull sun
• WaterLow to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• ClimateThrives in subtropical and warm temperate regions and tolerates hot dry summers

Additional Features

• FlowersDense clusters of scarlet bell-shaped flowers on bare wood in late spring and summer
• UsesIdeal for street and avenue planting, park features, courtyards and urban plazas, and for light shade over seating
• SpacingPlant 5 to 7 metres apart for avenue work
• Low MaintenanceNeeds only formative pruning; the deciduous period is brief
• Pest ResistanceGenerally robust and free of significant problems
• Drought ToleranceHolds condition through dry periods once the root system is away
• Wildlife AttractionFlowers carry nectar for birds and insects
• Seasonal AppealThe flowering flush on bare branches is the strongest moment of the year

The Red Robin Flame Tree delivers the scarlet flowering of a Brachychiton on a frame that suits a street, a plaza or a courtyard.