Brachychiton rupestris 'Character Cut Backs'

Years in the making, our Character Cut Backs are individually shaped Queensland Bottle Trees with a distinctive, bonsai inspired presence. We’ve grown these trees for several years, raised their substantial roots above the soil, and cut back their upper growth to develop their unusual silhouettes. The result is a beautiful contrast between exposed, sculptural roots, textured woody trunks, and delicate, narrow foliage. Each tree has its own personality, with bends, branching, and root formations that make every specimen unique. Native to Australia, Brachychiton rupestris naturally develops a water storing, bottle shaped trunk with age. These characterful specimens offer an established foundation for continued shaping or simply enjoying as living sculptures. “Character Cut Backs” is our descriptive name for these trained trees, rather than a separate botanical cultivar.

☀️ Light
Full sun to bright, filtered light. Acclimate gradually to strong direct sunlight. Indoors, provide a very bright, sunny window.

💧 Water
Water thoroughly, then allow the upper few inches of soil to dry before watering again. Container-grown trees need more regular watering than established landscape trees. Reduce watering during cooler weather or periods of leaf loss.

🌱 Soil
Use a well-draining mix containing potting soil, pumice or perlite, and coarse bark. When repotting, maintain the existing soil level to preserve the exposed-root display.

🌡️ Temperature
Prefers warm conditions. Protect container-grown specimens from frost and prolonged cold, especially while developing new growth.

💨 Humidity
Adapts to low to moderate humidity. Provide good airflow; misting is unnecessary.

🪴 Fertilizer
Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength during active growth. Occasional pruning can help maintain the silhouette and encourage branching.

⚠️ Toxicity
None Toxic