Brachychiton discolour is a large dome shaped tree growing to 20m in height and width.
In early summer it temporarily discards its leaves while it produces a stunning display of pretty, bell shaped, deep pink flowers. Against the bare branches this makes a lovely sight, especially as the flowers have a very soft downy appearance too.
Then as the flowers fade so the large, green topped with grey underside, lobed leaves return creating a fine and distinguished appearance for the rest of the time.
Although native to northern NSW and Queensland, they do have a certain amount of ability to deal with frosts - albeit not deep and prolonged.
They have compact root systems so go well as street trees, not destroying pavements as they grow. They grace many a street in Spain where they have become very popular.