Pronunciation: Brachychiton (brack-ee-KY-ton) discolor (diss-KUL-uh)

Brachychiton discolor, commonly known as the Lacebark is an Australian native tree.
Particularly known for its lush canopy and showy, pink flowers.

Taxonomy:

  • Family: Malvaceae
  • Genus: Brachychiton

Description:

  • Growth:Tree typically grows between 10–20 meters in height. Distinctive, smooth, greyish bark when young that eventually develops a lace-like pattern as it matures, giving it its common name.
  • Leaves: Large and lobed, often divided into 3–5 sections. They have a rough texture and are green on top and pale underneath.
  • Flowers:Clusters of tubular, bell-shaped flowers that are pink to deep pink in colour.
  • Seed: Woody pods that contain seeds that are coated in fine hairs.

Habitat and Distribution:

Native to eastern Australia, found in rainforests and subtropical regions of Queensland and New South Wales. Thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is also quite hardy, tolerating drought once established.

Hosts: (included but not limited to)

  • Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus): Feeds on the flower’s nectar. Aids in pollination, as it moves pollen between flowers while feeding.
  • Native Stingless Bees (Tetragonula carbonaria): Are known pollinators for Brachychiton species, attracted to the nectar-rich flowers of Brachychiton discolor. These bees gather nectar and pollen, playing a significant role in the pollination process.
  • Monolepta Beetles (Monolepta genus): In certain regions, have been observed feeding on the leaves.
  • Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula): Feeds on the young leaves, flowers, and occasionally the fruit especially during flowering season when the tree is bare of foliage.
  • Pied Currawong (Strepera graculina): Consume the seeds found in the tree’s woody seed pods. They act as dispersers by spreading seeds in their droppings.
  • Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala): Feed on the nectar from the bright pink flowers and help with cross-pollination.

Ecology and Uses:

  • Ornamental: Popular in ornamental landscaping due to its striking pink, bell-shaped flowers and lush canopy.
  • Bushfood: Edible once roasted, though they need to be handled carefully due to fine hairs around them that can irritate the skin
  • Livestock Fodder: During droughts or dry seasons, leaves and young shoots can be used as emergency fodder for livestock.
  • Drought-Resistant: Suitable choice for xeriscaping (landscaping with plants that require minimal water).

Links:

Species profile—Brachychiton discolor | Environment, land and water | Queensland Government

Brachychiton discolor : Lacebark Tree | Atlas of Living Australia