Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree)
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree)
Most loved for its spectacular display of bright scarlet flowers in late spring to summer, often when the tree is leafless, creating a dramatic “flame-like” effect.
Regular price
$170.00
Sale price
$170.00
Regular price
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Pot size
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- Current height guide
- Please enquire
- Pot size
- 30cm/33cm
Approximate only. Minimum height important? Confirm with us.
Height guide & disclaimer
Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you must confirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.
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About this tree
About this tree
- Mature height
- 10m to 20m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 5m to 10m
Brachychiton acerifolius, the Illawarra Flame Tree, is a large Australian native with a straight trunk and a broad crown of glossy lobed leaves. In warmer summers it sheds much of that foliage and clothes the bare branches in scarlet bell flowers, which is the display the tree is known for.
It grows best in full sun on deep, free draining soil and suits warm temperate and subtropical gardens through coastal New South Wales and Queensland. Young trees need protection from frost, although established specimens take light frosts in their stride. Growth is around 50 to 100 centimetres a year, and mature trees are notably drought hardy.
The scale suits parks, rural properties, large gardens and civic landscapes, and it works as an avenue or street tree where the canopy has room. Allow 3 to 4 metres between trees for avenue work, more for a specimen. Buyers choose it for a summer flowering event that no other shade tree in the catalogue matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Illawarra Flame Tree
What is the Illawarra Flame Tree?
Brachychiton acerifolius is an Australian native tree from the rainforest margins of the east coast, in the family Malvaceae. It is grown for the mass of scarlet bell shaped flowers it carries in early summer, usually on bare or half bare branches. The leaves are glossy and deeply lobed, and older trees develop a thick, buttressed trunk.
How big does Brachychiton acerifolius grow?
In good ground it reaches 15 to 25 metres tall with a crown 8 to 12 metres across, so it is a tree for open space rather than a courtyard. Growth in cultivation is often slower and shorter than in habitat, but the mature footprint should still be planned for. Compact hybrids are available where the room is not there.
Is it evergreen or deciduous?
It is best described as semi deciduous. In most seasons it drops the majority of its leaves in late spring, flowers on the bare framework, then pushes new foliage straight afterwards. In warm frost free gardens the leaf drop can be partial and brief. In cooler districts the tree can stand bare for several weeks.
When does it flower?
Flowering runs from late spring into early summer, generally November through to January depending on the season and district. The display is triggered by warm dry conditions, so it is heavier in some years than others, and young trees often take several years before their first real flush. Flowers are followed by boat shaped seed pods.
Is it frost tolerant?
Only moderately. Established trees cope with light frosts, but young stock is easily damaged by hard or repeated frost and should be protected through its first few winters. It is a warm climate tree by origin, so cold inland sites with heavy frost are not its natural fit. Plant where cold air drains away rather than settling.
Does it have invasive roots?
The root system is not regarded as aggressive. Trees develop a thick tuberous taproot when young and a spreading anchoring system as they mature, and they are not known for lifting paving or entering drains. Even so, the trunk thickens considerably with age, so allow several metres of clearance from kerbs, footings and services.
How do I care for an Illawarra Flame Tree?
Water deeply through the first two summers to establish the root system, then it needs little supplementary water. Mulch out to the drip line and keep the mulch off the trunk. Prune only to remove damaged wood or to lift the canopy while the tree is young. A light application of a native fertiliser in spring is enough.
Mature height & width
Mature height & width
- Mature height
- 10m to 20m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 5m to 10m
Pot sizes & dimensions
Pot sizes & dimensions
| Pot / bag size | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|
| 30cm Pot | 33cm | 30cm |
| 40cm/45L Pot | 44cm | 41.5cm |
| 50cm Pot / 70L Pot | 55cm | 41.8cm |
| 100L Bag | 50.6cm | 52.8cm |
| 150L Bag | 66cm | 55cm |
| 200L Bag | 71.5cm | 60.5cm |
| 300L Bag | 88cm | 63.8cm |
| 400L Bag | 99cm | 66cm |
| 500L Bag | 122cm | 66cm |
| 750L Bag | 134cm | 69cm |
| 1000L Bag | 146.3cm | 71.5cm |
| 2000L Bag | 176cm | 82.5cm |
General planting reference from our existing size guide. Actual containers can vary by supplier and batch; confirm exact dimensions if required.
Delivery & pickup
Delivery & pickup
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About Brachychiton acerifolius
Brachychiton acerifolius, the Illawarra Flame Tree, is a large Australian native with a straight trunk and a broad crown of glossy lobed leaves. In warmer summers it sheds much of that foliage and clothes the bare branches in scarlet bell flowers, which is the display the tree is known for.
It grows best in full sun on deep, free draining soil and suits warm temperate and subtropical gardens through coastal New South Wales and Queensland. Young trees need protection from frost, although established specimens take light frosts in their stride. Growth is around 50 to 100 centimetres a year, and mature trees are notably drought hardy.
The scale suits parks, rural properties, large gardens and civic landscapes, and it works as an avenue or street tree where the canopy has room. Allow 3 to 4 metres between trees for avenue work, more for a specimen. Buyers choose it for a summer flowering event that no other shade tree in the catalogue matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Illawarra Flame Tree
What is the Illawarra Flame Tree?
Brachychiton acerifolius is an Australian native tree from the rainforest margins of the east coast, in the family Malvaceae. It is grown for the mass of scarlet bell shaped flowers it carries in early summer, usually on bare or half bare branches. The leaves are glossy and deeply lobed, and older trees develop a thick, buttressed trunk.
How big does Brachychiton acerifolius grow?
In good ground it reaches 15 to 25 metres tall with a crown 8 to 12 metres across, so it is a tree for open space rather than a courtyard. Growth in cultivation is often slower and shorter than in habitat, but the mature footprint should still be planned for. Compact hybrids are available where the room is not there.
Is it evergreen or deciduous?
It is best described as semi deciduous. In most seasons it drops the majority of its leaves in late spring, flowers on the bare framework, then pushes new foliage straight afterwards. In warm frost free gardens the leaf drop can be partial and brief. In cooler districts the tree can stand bare for several weeks.
When does it flower?
Flowering runs from late spring into early summer, generally November through to January depending on the season and district. The display is triggered by warm dry conditions, so it is heavier in some years than others, and young trees often take several years before their first real flush. Flowers are followed by boat shaped seed pods.
Is it frost tolerant?
Only moderately. Established trees cope with light frosts, but young stock is easily damaged by hard or repeated frost and should be protected through its first few winters. It is a warm climate tree by origin, so cold inland sites with heavy frost are not its natural fit. Plant where cold air drains away rather than settling.
Does it have invasive roots?
The root system is not regarded as aggressive. Trees develop a thick tuberous taproot when young and a spreading anchoring system as they mature, and they are not known for lifting paving or entering drains. Even so, the trunk thickens considerably with age, so allow several metres of clearance from kerbs, footings and services.
How do I care for an Illawarra Flame Tree?
Water deeply through the first two summers to establish the root system, then it needs little supplementary water. Mulch out to the drip line and keep the mulch off the trunk. Prune only to remove damaged wood or to lift the canopy while the tree is young. A light application of a native fertiliser in spring is enough.
- Foliage
Semi Deciduous
- Position
- Form
- Use
- Mature height
- 10m to 20m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 5m to 10m
Planting Information
Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree)
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) is expected to grow 50cm to 100cm per year (approx.).
Long Term Care For Your Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree)
Planting Your Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) in Different Soil
Uses in my Garden
Uses in my Garden
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) works in an:
Is Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) Evergreen or Deciduous?
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) is an Semi Deciduous Tree
Mature Height & Width
Mature Height: 10m to 20m (approx.)
Mature Width: 5m to 10m
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) is expected to grow 50cm to 100cm per year (approx.).
Growth Rate of Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree)
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) is expected to grow 50cm to 100cm per year (approx.).
They are considered to have a:
Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree)
Is Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) frost tolerant?
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) is Frost Tolerant – Can handle light to moderate frost once established.
Does Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) Flower?
Brachychiton acerifolius produces masses of brilliant scarlet bell-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer, often appearing on bare branches before the new leaves. These spectacular blooms create a dramatic, flame-red display that makes the tree one of Australia’s most iconic flowering species.
Does Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) flower?
Flowering Period:
Flower Type:
Flower Colour:
Red
Is Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) an Australian Native Tree?
Yes
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) is Native to Eastern Australia, from the Illawarra region of New South Wales north into Queensland, where it grows in coastal rainforests and along river valleys.
What is the Wildlife Value of Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) ?
Its nectar-rich flowers attract honeyeaters, lorikeets, butterflies and native bees, while the dense canopy offers shelter for small birds. The seed pods also provide habitat and food for insects, contributing to a biodiverse and resilient garden ecosystem.
How much Sunlight does Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) need?
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) will thrive best in:
Preferred Soil?
Brachychiton acerifolius performs best in well-drained sandy or loam soils and tolerates slightly acidic to slightly alkaline conditions. It can struggle in heavy clay or poorly drained ground unless improved with organic matter and coarse material to enhance drainage. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, then reduce watering as the tree matures and shows its characteristic high drought resilience.
Is Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) Drought Tolerant?
Is Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) Drought tolerant?
As a young tree it benefits from regular watering, but once established Brachychiton acerifolius develops excellent drought tolerance. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and maintains its strong structure and seasonal performance with minimal supplementary watering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Compare sizes side by side
Scroll to compare →30cm/33cm
Enquire for current heights
40cm/45L
Approx. 1.2m – 2.0m
100L
Approx. 1.6m – 3.4m
200L
Approx. 2.4m – 3.6m
300L
Approx. 3.6m – 5.5m
400L
Approx. 3.2m – 4.0m
700L
Approx. 3.2m – 4.0m
1000L
Enquire for current heights
2000L
Enquire for current heights
Heights are approximate and vary between individual trees.
Brachychiton acerifolius is loved for its spectacular display of bright scarlet flowers in late spring to summer, often when the tree is leafless, creating a dramatic “flame-like” effect.
We take pride in supplying A+ grade advanced trees. When stock at our farm is not yet ready, we work with our trusted trade suppliers to source the best available trees for your garden.
Plant Your Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) With:
Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)
Enriched Planting Mix is a certified organic blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent, bagged in 30L. It is built to be dug through existing garden soil at planting time rather than used on its own, and the gypsum is what sets it apart from a plain compost.
Gypsum helps break up heavy clay so water and roots can move through it, while the compost and manure return organic matter and nutrient to tired ground. The coarse bark holds structure and keeps air around the root zone, and the wetting agent keeps moisture in the soil longer after rain or watering.
Use it when planting trees, shrubs, roses, fruit trees and exotic garden plants, particularly into clay. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and 7 centimetres deeper, then mix roughly one third planting mix through the excavated soil. Spread 7 centimetres of that improved soil in the base before setting the plant in.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Enriched Planting Mix
What is Enriched Planting Mix made from?
It is a blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent. Each part has a job. The compost and manure supply organic matter and nutrient, the gypsum works on clay structure, the bark keeps air around the roots and the wetting agent holds moisture in the soil.
What plants is it suitable for?
It suits exotic garden plants, including roses, ornamental and deciduous trees, fruit trees, shrubs and perennials, and it earns its keep most on heavy clay sites. It is a planting mix rather than a potting mix, so its job is improving soil at planting time. Phosphorus sensitive natives are the one clear exception.
Is it safe for natives?
No, not for the phosphorus sensitive ones. The composted animal manure in this blend lifts phosphorus well above what Proteaceae such as Banksia, Grevillea, Hakea and Protea will tolerate, and the result can be leaf burn, dieback and plant death. Use the Native Potting Mix for those species, or plant them into unimproved local soil.
Is it certified organic?
Yes. It is a certified organic product with no chemical additives, which is why the manure and compost in it are fully composted rather than raw. That makes it sound around fruit trees and vegetable beds, and it means you are adding genuine organic matter to your soil rather than a synthetic conditioner.
How much do I need?
Work on roughly one third planting mix to two thirds of the soil you dug out of the hole. For a shrub out of a 200 millimetre pot that is only a few litres. An advanced tree going into a large hole will take considerably more. Judge the quantity by the volume of the hole rather than the size of the plant.
Can I use it in pots?
It is not a potting mix and should not be used on its own in a container. The blend is designed to be diluted through garden soil, and used straight in a pot it holds too much water and settles badly. For containers, reach for a premium potting mix, or the native mix if you are potting natives.
Does it need to be watered in?
Yes. Water the plant well several hours before you plant it, then water thoroughly again once the hole is backfilled and the soil firmed down. That first deep watering settles the improved soil around the root ball and drives out air pockets. Keep the water up over the first few months while the roots establish.
Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)
Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)
Enriched Planting Mix is a certified organic blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent, bagged in 30L. It is built to be dug through existing garden soil at planting time rather than used on its own, and the gypsum is what sets it apart from a plain compost.
Gypsum helps break up heavy clay so water and roots can move through it, while the compost and manure return organic matter and nutrient to tired ground. The coarse bark holds structure and keeps air around the root zone, and the wetting agent keeps moisture in the soil longer after rain or watering.
Use it when planting trees, shrubs, roses, fruit trees and exotic garden plants, particularly into clay. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and 7 centimetres deeper, then mix roughly one third planting mix through the excavated soil. Spread 7 centimetres of that improved soil in the base before setting the plant in.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Enriched Planting Mix
What is Enriched Planting Mix made from?
It is a blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent. Each part has a job. The compost and manure supply organic matter and nutrient, the gypsum works on clay structure, the bark keeps air around the roots and the wetting agent holds moisture in the soil.
What plants is it suitable for?
It suits exotic garden plants, including roses, ornamental and deciduous trees, fruit trees, shrubs and perennials, and it earns its keep most on heavy clay sites. It is a planting mix rather than a potting mix, so its job is improving soil at planting time. Phosphorus sensitive natives are the one clear exception.
Is it safe for natives?
No, not for the phosphorus sensitive ones. The composted animal manure in this blend lifts phosphorus well above what Proteaceae such as Banksia, Grevillea, Hakea and Protea will tolerate, and the result can be leaf burn, dieback and plant death. Use the Native Potting Mix for those species, or plant them into unimproved local soil.
Is it certified organic?
Yes. It is a certified organic product with no chemical additives, which is why the manure and compost in it are fully composted rather than raw. That makes it sound around fruit trees and vegetable beds, and it means you are adding genuine organic matter to your soil rather than a synthetic conditioner.
How much do I need?
Work on roughly one third planting mix to two thirds of the soil you dug out of the hole. For a shrub out of a 200 millimetre pot that is only a few litres. An advanced tree going into a large hole will take considerably more. Judge the quantity by the volume of the hole rather than the size of the plant.
Can I use it in pots?
It is not a potting mix and should not be used on its own in a container. The blend is designed to be diluted through garden soil, and used straight in a pot it holds too much water and settles badly. For containers, reach for a premium potting mix, or the native mix if you are potting natives.
Does it need to be watered in?
Yes. Water the plant well several hours before you plant it, then water thoroughly again once the hole is backfilled and the soil firmed down. That first deep watering settles the improved soil around the root ball and drives out air pockets. Keep the water up over the first few months while the roots establish.
Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl' is one of the best compact evergreen shrubs available for low hedges and borders. The glossy dark green foliage forms a naturally tidy rounded mound, and clusters of soft white to pale pink flowers appear from late winter into spring, followed by small dark berries.
Oriental Pearl grows to just 1-1.5 metres tall and wide, holding a neat uniform shape with minimal pruning. The compact form makes it ideal for low clipped hedges, narrow borders, mass plantings, and container planting, particularly where space is limited and a formal finish is wanted.
Oriental Pearl thrives across most Australian climates in full sun to part shade, tolerating heat, coastal exposure, salt spray, light frost, and a wide range of well-drained soils. It is both drought tolerant and salt tolerant once established, making it a reliable low-maintenance choice for coastal and low-water gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'
How tall does Oriental Pearl Rhaphiolepis grow?
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl' grows to 1-1.5 metres tall and wide, forming a naturally compact dense mound.
How fast does Oriental Pearl grow?
Oriental Pearl has a moderate growth rate of 20-40cm per year once established.
Is Oriental Pearl good for low hedges?
Yes. Oriental Pearl is one of the best compact evergreen shrubs for low hedges, borders, and mass plantings, holding a tidy rounded form with minimal pruning.
When does Oriental Pearl flower?
Oriental Pearl produces clusters of soft white to pale pink flowers from late winter into spring, followed by small dark berries.
Is Oriental Pearl drought and salt tolerant?
Yes. Oriental Pearl is both drought tolerant and salt tolerant once established, making it well suited to coastal gardens and low-water landscapes.
How far apart should I plant Oriental Pearl for a low hedge?
Plant 50-70cm apart for a continuous low hedge, or 80cm-1 metre for a softer informal border.
Where does Oriental Pearl grow best in Australia?
Oriental Pearl thrives across most Australian climates in full sun to part shade, tolerating heat, coastal exposure, and a wide range of well-drained soils.
Rhaphiolepis indica 'Oriental Pearl'
Acmena smithii 'Sublime' Lilly Pilly
Acmena smithii 'Sublime' Lilly Pilly
Acmena smithii 'Sublime' is a compact evergreen lilly pilly with vivid lime-green new growth that matures to deep glossy green. Its naturally upright columnar habit delivers dense coverage from base to tip, making it one of the cleanest, lowest-maintenance screening plants available.
Sublime grows to around 5 metres tall and just 2-3 metres wide, holding a tight column with minimal pruning. The narrow form suits tight boundary lines, pool surrounds, and structured hedges. A non-invasive root system and strong psyllid resistance make it a reliable, well-behaved alternative to more vigorous screening species.
Sublime tolerates clay soils, light frost, and moderate drought once established. It thrives across temperate to subtropical regions of NSW, QLD, VIC and parts of SA and WA, in full sun to part shade.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Acmena smithii 'Sublime' Lilly Pilly
How tall does Sublime Lilly Pilly grow?
Sublime grows to around 5 metres tall and just 2-3 metres wide, with a naturally upright columnar form.
How fast does Sublime grow?
Sublime is fast-growing, adding 50-80cm per year once established.
Is Sublime psyllid resistant?
Yes. Acmena smithii 'Sublime' has strong psyllid resistance, so it holds clean, unblemished foliage where older lilly pilly types can suffer pimple-like leaf damage.
Is Sublime good for hedging and screening?
Yes. The dense columnar habit makes Sublime ideal for narrow hedges, screens, and pool surrounds where clean form is needed.
Are Sublime roots invasive?
No. Sublime has a non-invasive root system, making it a safer choice near paving, pools, and boundaries than more vigorous screening species.
How far apart should I plant Sublime for a hedge?
Plant 60-80cm apart for a dense formal hedge, or 1 metre for a more relaxed screen.
Where does Sublime grow best in Australia?
Sublime thrives across temperate to subtropical regions of NSW, QLD, VIC and parts of SA and WA, tolerating clay soils, light frost, and moderate drought once established.
Acmena smithii 'Sublime' Lilly Pilly
Buxus japonica Japanese Box Topiary Balls
Buxus japonica Japanese Box Topiary Balls
Buxus microphylla var. japonica, sold as Japanese Box, is a dense evergreen shrub clipped here into clean topiary balls. The small, rounded, mid green leaves sit tightly along short stems, so the surface holds a crisp edge after cutting. Growth is naturally compact, which is what allows the ball shape to hold between trims.
It grows in full sun to part shade and accepts most soils that drain, from sandy loam through to improved clay. Cool temperate, temperate and subtropical districts all suit it, and established plants handle light to moderate frost. Growth runs about 15 to 25 centimetres a year, slow enough that the shape stays where you put it.
Balls are used to edge beds and paths, mark an entry, sit either side of a doorway, or repeat down a courtyard to give a planting rhythm. They also underplant feature trees neatly. Because the form arrives already grown, a bed reads finished from the day it goes in rather than years later.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Japanese Box Topiary Balls
What is a Japanese Box topiary ball?
It is Buxus microphylla var. japonica grown on and clipped into a sphere. The plant does the same job as any box shrub, evergreen, small leaved and tolerant of cutting, but it arrives already shaped. Ball diameters run from around 30 centimetres up to large advanced specimens, and the shape is then held with two trims a year.
How big do Japanese Box topiary balls get?
The ball is held at whatever diameter it is clipped to, commonly 30 to 70 centimetres, with larger specimens available in bigger containers. In the ground, overall height sits close to the ball diameter. Left entirely unclipped the species would slowly reach roughly 1.5 to 2 metres tall and wide over many years.
How fast does Japanese Box grow?
About 15 to 25 centimetres a year, which is slow to moderate. That pace is an advantage in topiary because the outline drifts gradually rather than running away between cuts. Two trims a year, one in early spring and one in late summer, are usually enough to keep the surface tight and the profile even.
Does it need sun or shade?
Full sun to part shade both work. Full sun gives the densest, tightest surface, which matters when the appeal of the plant is a clean clipped edge. In hot inland gardens some afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch and bronzing. Deep shade thins the growth out and the ball loses its crisp outline.
Is Japanese Box frost tolerant?
Yes. Established plants handle light to moderate frost without damage, which covers most temperate and cool temperate gardens including Canberra, Melbourne and the southern tablelands. Newly planted stock is more exposed, so water it well going into winter and mulch the root zone. Any frost burnt tips can simply be trimmed off in spring.
Can Japanese Box topiary balls grow in pots?
Yes, they are one of the better plants for a container. A pot 40 to 50 centimetres wide suits a single ball for a courtyard, entry or balcony. Use a quality potting mix, water once the top few centimetres dry out, and feed in spring and again in summer. Repot or refresh the mix every few years.
How do I care for Japanese Box topiary balls?
Trim twice a year with sharp shears, cutting lightly and often rather than hard. Feed in early spring with a slow release fertiliser and keep water up through summer. Mulch to about 50 millimetres, keeping it clear of the stem. Watch for box psyllid on soft new growth and treat early if the tips start to cup.
Buxus japonica Japanese Box Topiary Balls
Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls
Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls
Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls are pre-clipped formal evergreen specimens, available in three mature sizes and ready to place. The tight, fine, dark green foliage holds a precise rounded form year-round and gives the classic formal topiary look that no other Buxus replicates. As one of our most consistently strong-selling products, our English Box topiary balls are well-shaped, well-rooted, and arrive in proportion to the pot size.
English Box performs best in cool to temperate climates and is slow growing at around 15 to 25 cm per year in good conditions, which is exactly why it holds sharp formal shapes so well. It thrives in full sun to part shade with well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral loamy soil, and is frost hardy, drought tolerant once established, and excellent in containers. Two light clips per year, in spring and again in late summer, keep the ball form crisp.
Use them flanking entrances, lining formal pathways, anchoring symmetrical garden beds, defining parterre and knot gardens, and in pairs in classic urns and decorative pots at front doors. Buxus sempervirens is the original topiary plant and remains the benchmark for traditional and contemporary formal design, with a level of finesse and density that fast-growing alternatives cannot replicate.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls
What size are the English Box topiary balls when they arrive?
Our English Box topiary balls arrive pre-clipped and ready to place at the size you order. The 30cm/33cm pots have ball diameters of approximately 30 to 45 cm, the 40cm/45L pots have ball diameters of 40 to 55 cm, and the 50cm/75L pots have ball diameters of 50 to 70 cm. They are well-rooted and in proportion to the pot.
How fast does Buxus sempervirens grow?
English Box is slow-growing, adding approximately 15 to 25 cm per year once established in good conditions. This slow growth rate is one of the reasons it holds sharp formal shapes so well, and why mature pre-clipped specimens command a premium over seedling-grown stock.
What is the difference between English Box, Japanese Box, and Shaggy Box?
English Box (Buxus sempervirens) has the smallest, finest leaves and the tightest formal texture, ideal for traditional parterres and clipped balls. Japanese Box (Buxus microphylla japonica) has slightly larger leaves, grows faster, and handles heat better. Shaggy Box (Buxus bodinieri) has soft, rounded leaves, much better blight resistance, and is the best choice for humid subtropical climates where English Box can struggle.
Where does English Box grow best in Australia?
English Box performs best in cool to temperate regions including Victoria, the ACT, the NSW Southern Highlands and Central Tablelands, Tasmania, and the elevated parts of South Australia and Western Australia. In humid coastal or hot subtropical regions, consider Buxus bodinieri Shaggy Box or Japanese Box instead for better long-term performance.
How do I prune English Box topiary balls?
Lightly clip in spring and again in late summer or early autumn to maintain the ball shape. Avoid pruning in the heat of summer or during frost periods. Use sharp shears for the cleanest formal finish, and step back regularly to check the symmetry of the form.
Can English Box grow in pots?
Yes. English Box is the classic potted topiary plant and pre-clipped balls look particularly striking in pairs at entrances and on terraces. Use a minimum 30L pot for the 30cm/33cm size and scale up from there, with a quality potting mix and a slow-release fertiliser applied twice yearly.
Is English Box susceptible to disease?
English Box can be affected by box blight, particularly in humid conditions where foliage stays wet. To reduce risk, ensure good air circulation around each plant, avoid overhead watering, and prune to maintain airflow through the canopy. In high-humidity regions, Buxus bodinieri Shaggy Box is a more disease-resistant alternative.
Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls
Ligularia reniformis
Ligularia reniformis
Ligularia reniformis carries enormous glossy kidney-shaped leaves that give a shaded garden the bold tropical texture usually only available in full sun. The Tractor Seat Plant is grown for foliage first, with tall stems of bright yellow daisy flowers through summer as a bonus.
Ligularia reniformis forms a clump 0.6 to 1 metre tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide, spreading slowly at 10 to 20 centimetres per year. That steady habit makes it reliable as a mass underplanting beneath established trees, an edging along a shaded path, or a single specimen in a large pot.
This is a full shade plant. It wants consistent moisture and protection from hot afternoon sun, which scorches the leaves, and it is frost sensitive, so in cold districts it needs a protected position. Given shade and water it is close to maintenance free.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Ligularia reniformis
How big does Ligularia reniformis grow?
It forms a clump 0.6 to 1 metre tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide. The individual leaves can reach 40 centimetres across, which is where the bold texture comes from.
Why is it called the Tractor Seat Plant?
The common name comes from the large round kidney-shaped leaves, which resemble the seat of an old tractor. The botanical name reniformis means kidney-shaped.
Does Ligularia reniformis need shade?
Yes. It performs best in full shade and will scorch in hot afternoon sun. It is one of the most useful foliage plants available for genuinely dark positions.
When does it flower?
Tall stems of bright yellow daisy-like flowers rise well above the foliage through summer. The foliage remains the main feature for the rest of the year.
Is Ligularia reniformis frost tolerant?
No. It is frost sensitive and may be damaged by frost. In cold districts plant it in a protected position, or grow it in a pot that can be moved under cover.
How much water does it need?
It wants consistently moist soil and does not tolerate drying out. Mulch well and water regularly through summer, particularly in pots and under established trees where roots compete.
How far apart should I plant it for a mass planting?
Plant 0.8 to 1 metre apart for a continuous shaded groundcover mass. Closer spacing fills in faster but the clumps will crowd within a few seasons.
Ligularia reniformis
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen'
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen'
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen' carries small shimmering silver-green leaves on near-black stems, giving a light airy screen that moves in the wind rather than reading as a solid green wall. It is one of the most widely specified screening plants in Australian landscape design for exactly that reason.
'Silver Sheen' grows to 4 to 6 metres tall but only 1.5 to 2 metres wide at 30 to 60 centimetres per year, which makes it a genuine solution for narrow beds along fence lines and between buildings where height is needed but width is not available. Small cream flowers appear in spring and are lightly fragrant.
'Silver Sheen' grows in full sun to part shade and tolerates light to moderate frost once established, performing from subtropical Queensland through Sydney, Melbourne, Gippsland and Adelaide. It clips well, holds density under regular trimming, and is equally effective as a formal hedge or a loose screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen'
How tall does Pittosporum 'Silver Sheen' grow?
'Silver Sheen' grows to 4 to 6 metres tall and only 1.5 to 2 metres wide, which makes it one of the best options for narrow screening where a tall hedge is needed in a shallow bed.
How fast does 'Silver Sheen' grow?
It grows at 30 to 60 centimetres per year once established, reaching a usable screening height within three to four years with regular water and feeding.
How narrow can I keep 'Silver Sheen'?
It naturally holds to 1.5 to 2 metres wide and can be trimmed to under a metre with regular clipping, which is why it is so often used in tight side-boundary positions.
How far apart should I plant 'Silver Sheen' for a hedge?
Plant 1 to 1.5 metres apart for a dense informal screen, or 80 centimetres apart for a tighter formal hedge. Closer spacing fills in faster but needs more trimming.
Is 'Silver Sheen' frost tolerant?
'Silver Sheen' handles light to moderate frost once established. Young plants benefit from protection through their first winter in colder inland districts.
Does 'Silver Sheen' grow in shade?
Yes. It performs in full sun through to part shade. In shadier positions growth is slightly more open, which suits a softer informal screen.
Where does 'Silver Sheen' grow best in Australia?
It performs from subtropical Queensland through Northern NSW, Sydney, the South Coast and tablelands, Melbourne and surrounds, the Western District, Gippsland and Adelaide.
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen'
Trachelospermum jasminoides Balls – Star Jasmine Balls
Trachelospermum jasminoides Balls – Star Jasmine Balls
Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Balls' is Star Jasmine grown and clipped into a dense evergreen sphere. The small glossy leaves sit tight on a woody framework, holding a clean rounded outline year round. White pinwheel flowers open in spring and carry a strong sweet scent right across a courtyard.
Ball specimens hold at about 1 to 1.5 metres tall and wide with light clipping. Full sun to part shade suits them, in any free draining soil. Growth is slow to moderate at 30 to 50 centimetres a year. They handle coastal exposure, light frost and dry spells once the roots are down.
Repeat them along a driveway, either side of an entry, or in pots on a terrace where a formal shape is wanted straight away. They read as structure in a planting scheme without the height of a hedge, and because the form is already trained, a new garden looks settled from the day it goes in.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Star Jasmine Balls
What are Star Jasmine Balls?
They are Trachelospermum jasminoides, the common Star Jasmine, grown and clipped into a dense evergreen sphere on a woody framework. Instead of climbing, the plant is trained into a self supporting rounded shape. The foliage is small, glossy and dark green, and the plant carries scented white flowers through spring.
How big do Star Jasmine Balls grow?
They hold at roughly 1 to 1.5 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide. Growth is slow to moderate at 30 to 50 centimetres a year, so a light clip once or twice a year keeps the ball tight at whatever size within that range suits the setting.
Do Star Jasmine Balls need sun or shade?
Full sun to part shade both work. Full sun gives the densest foliage and the heaviest flowering, while part shade produces slightly softer, more open growth and fewer flowers. Avoid deep shade, where the ball thins out and loses its outline. Morning sun with afternoon protection suits hot inland gardens.
Can Star Jasmine Balls be grown in pots?
Yes, and pots are one of the main uses. A container 50 to 60 centimetres wide with a quality free draining mix will hold a ball for years. Water more often than you would in the ground, especially in summer, and feed in spring and again in late summer. Refresh the mix every few years.
Are Star Jasmine Balls evergreen?
Yes, the foliage is held year round. The glossy dark green leaves take on a bronze tinge in cold weather and green up again in spring, but the plant never goes bare. That is what makes it useful as permanent structure in a scheme, particularly in winter once perennials have died back.
When do Star Jasmine Balls flower?
Flowering runs through spring, roughly September to November, and often carries into early summer in warmer districts. The white pinwheel flowers are small but produced in quantity, and the scent is strong on still evenings. Flowering is heaviest on plants in full sun that were not clipped hard just before bud set.
How do I prune and care for Star Jasmine Balls?
Clip lightly with hedging shears once after flowering and again in late summer if needed, taking only the new growth to keep the outline crisp. Water deeply in dry weather, mulch the base, and feed in early spring. The sap is milky and can irritate skin, so wear gloves when trimming.
Trachelospermum jasminoides Balls – Star Jasmine Balls
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Perfect Substitutes for Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree)
Brachychiton populneus - Bottle Tree
Brachychiton populneus - Bottle Tree
Brachychiton populneus stores water in a thickened bottle-shaped trunk, which is why the Kurrajong stands green through droughts that strip everything around it. Graziers have relied on it as emergency stock fodder for generations, and it is one of the toughest shade trees in the country.
Brachychiton populneus grows to 10 to 20 metres tall and 5 to 10 metres wide at 30 to 60 centimetres per year, forming a dense conical to rounded canopy of glossy dark green foliage. Cream bell-shaped flowers appear through spring and summer, followed by woody boat-shaped seed pods.
This Australian native is frost hardy, surviving heavy and frequent frost without damage, and tolerates extreme heat, drought and poor shallow soils. It grows in full sun and is widely used for shade, avenue and streetscape planting in hot inland districts.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Brachychiton populneus
How big does the Kurrajong grow?
Brachychiton populneus reaches 10 to 20 metres tall and 5 to 10 metres wide, forming a dense conical to rounded canopy. It suits acreage, parkland, streets and larger gardens.
Why is the trunk swollen?
The Kurrajong stores water in its thickened trunk, an adaptation that lets it survive extended drought. Older trees develop a pronounced bottle shape, which is where the common name comes from.
How drought tolerant is the Kurrajong?
Exceptionally. It is among the most drought and heat tolerant trees available in Australia and stays green through conditions that defoliate most other species.
Is Brachychiton populneus an Australian native?
Yes. It is native to eastern Australia from Queensland through New South Wales into Victoria, and is a familiar sight across inland grazing country.
Is it frost hardy?
Yes. It survives heavy and frequent frost without damage, and equally tolerates extreme summer heat, which makes it unusually adaptable.
Does the Kurrajong drop much litter?
It sheds woody boat-shaped seed pods after flowering. The pods contain irritant hairs around the seeds, so they are best swept up rather than handled bare-handed.
How far apart should I plant Kurrajongs?
Plant 6 to 8 metres apart for an avenue, or 8 to 10 metres apart as individual shade trees so each canopy can develop fully.
Brachychiton populneus - Bottle Tree
Brachychiton populneus x discolor 'Griffiths Pink'
Brachychiton populneus x discolor 'Griffiths Pink'
Brachychiton populneus x discolor 'Griffiths Pink' crosses the Kurrajong with the Lacebark, giving an upright tree with a rounded crown, lobed green leaves and a pale, softly textured trunk. Soft pink bell flowers open in large numbers from late spring through to mid summer and cover the outer branches.
Full sun and free draining soil suit it, and it performs across warm temperate, subtropical and semi arid districts. Light to moderate frost is handled once the tree is established, as are extended dry periods. Growth is steady at roughly 50 to 70 centimetres a year and maintenance requirements stay low.
Group plantings give a layered flowering effect through parks and open lawns, while single trees lift structured garden beds and civic forecourts. Allow about 3 metres between trees for avenue work and 3 to 4 metres for specimens. Buyers get lacebark flower quality on a frame tough enough for exposed, low water sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Griffiths Pink Brachychiton
What is Brachychiton 'Griffiths Pink'?
It is a hybrid between Brachychiton populneus, the Kurrajong, and Brachychiton discolor, the Lacebark or Queensland Lacebark. The cross carries the soft pink bell flowers of the lacebark on a tougher, more drought hardy frame. It is an Australian native cultivar used for feature, street and parkland planting across a wide climate range.
How big does Griffiths Pink grow?
It typically reaches 8 to 10 metres tall with a canopy 4 to 5 metres across, which makes it a medium tree with genuine shade value. It is larger than the Bella Pink and Bella Donna hybrids, so give it room in a lawn, verge or park rather than a small courtyard.
How fast does it grow?
Growth runs at roughly 50 to 70 centimetres of height a year in reasonable ground, which is moderate for a tree of this size. The first three or four years are the quickest, particularly with good soil preparation and regular water. After that the tree puts more energy into canopy width and trunk thickness.
When does it flower?
The main display runs from late spring into mid summer, broadly November through to January. Soft pink bells open across the outer canopy in large numbers, often over several weeks. Warm dry conditions in the lead up produce the heaviest flowering, and the display improves noticeably as the tree matures.
Where does it grow best in Australia?
It suits warm temperate, subtropical and semi arid regions, covering coastal and inland New South Wales, south east Queensland, northern Victoria, South Australia and much of Western Australia. Hot, dry and exposed sites are handled well. The main limitation is cold, wet ground, where drainage rather than temperature causes the trouble.
Does it need much water?
Not once it is established. Regular deep watering is important through the first two summers while the root system develops, after which the tree carries itself through dry seasons with only occasional deep soakings. This is one of the reasons it is specified for parks and rural plantings where irrigation is limited or absent.
How do I care for Griffiths Pink?
Plant into well prepared, free draining soil and water deeply while it establishes. Mulch the root zone annually, keeping the trunk collar clear. Prune in late winter to shape the young tree and lift the canopy, then leave it alone. Feed with a low phosphorus native fertiliser in early spring for the first few years.
Brachychiton populneus x discolor 'Griffiths Pink'
Corymbia ficifolia
Corymbia ficifolia
Corymbia ficifolia produces the most spectacular flowering display of any Australian tree, smothering its canopy in dense clusters of scarlet to orange blossom through summer and autumn. The Red Flowering Gum is worked constantly by lorikeets and honeyeaters while it is in bloom.
Corymbia ficifolia grows to 6 to 10 metres tall and 5 to 10 metres wide at 40 to 60 centimetres per year, forming a compact rounded canopy on a short trunk. That modest scale, unusual among eucalypts, makes it viable as a street tree and a feature in an ordinary suburban garden.
This Australian native grows in full sun and is frost sensitive, so it suits frost-free coastal and warm inland positions. It requires free drainage and dislikes summer humidity, performing best in Mediterranean climates such as Perth, Adelaide and coastal Victoria.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Corymbia ficifolia
How big does Corymbia ficifolia grow?
The Red Flowering Gum reaches 6 to 10 metres tall and 5 to 10 metres wide with a compact rounded canopy, making it one of the smaller and more garden-friendly eucalypts.
When does the Red Flowering Gum flower?
Dense clusters of scarlet to orange blossom appear through summer and into autumn, smothering the canopy. It is among the most spectacular flowering trees grown in Australia.
Does Corymbia ficifolia attract birds?
Yes. The nectar-rich blossom is worked heavily by lorikeets, honeyeaters and native bees throughout the flowering period.
Is Corymbia ficifolia frost tolerant?
No. It is frost sensitive, particularly when young, and performs best in frost-free coastal and warm inland positions.
Where does the Red Flowering Gum grow best?
It is native to a small area of south-west Western Australia and performs best in Mediterranean climates with dry summers, such as Perth, Adelaide and coastal Victoria. Summer humidity causes problems.
Is Corymbia ficifolia suitable as a street tree?
Yes. Its compact size, short trunk and rounded canopy make it a common council choice for streetscapes in suitable climates.
How far apart should I plant it?
Plant 5 to 6 metres apart for an avenue, or 6 to 8 metres apart as individual feature trees so each canopy can develop and flower fully.
Corymbia ficifolia
Tristaniopsis laurina 'Luscious' Watergum
Tristaniopsis laurina 'Luscious' Watergum
Tristaniopsis laurina 'Luscious' / Watergum Trees is a dependable choice for structured feature and street tree planting in urban and coastal landscapes. Its compact, upright form with dense, glossy evergreen foliage and striking copper-bronze new growth creates year-round visual interest and clean architectural lines.
Growing 7-10 metres tall with a 4-5 metre spread, it thrives in full sun to part shade and tolerates coastal exposure, urban pollution, and moderate drought. Its fragrant yellow flowers in late spring to summer add seasonal appeal.
For greater landscape impact, plant 'Luscious' with low-growing groundcovers or shade-tolerant shrubs beneath to enhance layered texture and biodiversity. Its tidy habit and pruning tolerance make it ideal for formal streetscapes, courtyards, or informal screening in medium to large gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Tristaniopsis laurina 'Luscious' Watergum
How tall does Luscious Watergum grow?
Luscious grows to 7-10 metres tall with a 4-5 metre spread, with a compact upright form.
How fast does Luscious grow?
Luscious has a moderate growth rate of 40-60cm per year once established.
Is Luscious suitable for street planting?
Yes. Luscious is widely used by Australian councils as a street tree thanks to its tolerance of urban pollution, coastal exposure, and tight pavement conditions.
Is Luscious an Australian native?
Yes. Tristaniopsis laurina is an Australian native, naturally found along watercourses on the east coast.
When does Luscious flower?
Fragrant yellow flowers appear in late spring to summer, typically November to January.
How far apart should I plant Luscious for a row or hedge?
Plant 1.5-2 metres apart for a continuous canopy or row, or 3-4 metres for individual feature trees.
Is Luscious frost tolerant?
Luscious handles light to moderate frost once established, which suits most temperate and coastal gardens along the east coast. Young trees are more sensitive, so protect them through their first winter or two in areas that get regular heavy frost. In cold inland districts, plant in a sheltered position with good drainage and mulch the root zone to keep soil temperatures steadier.
Tristaniopsis laurina 'Luscious' Watergum
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