Brachychiton discolor

Common name: Sterculia lorida tree. Scientific name: Brachychiton discolor. Also called: Hat tree. Native habitat: •Its original habitat is eastern Australia, and it has proven successful in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries. Description of Sterculia lorida tree: •A flowering tree belonging to the Malvaceae family, with a straight gray trunk and dark green leaves, and it is characterized by its beautiful flowers and its ability to withstand high heat and severe cold, which is why it has successfully been cultivated in dry areas with high temperatures in Saudi Arabia. Uses and benefits: Sterculia lorida tree •Considered a distinctive ornamental tree planted in gardens. Description of Sterculia lorida flower: •Its flowers are pink in color, without petals, and the flower diameter reaches 4 cm. It blooms from November to February. Fruit and seeds: •Its fruits ripen from early December to July, and they are boat-shaped, containing about 30 seeds, with each seed reaching 10 mm in length. Suitable climatic conditions and soil for cultivation: •Sterculia lorida is characterized by its ability to tolerate high temperatures, thrives in warm and sunny places, and can withstand soil conditions and frost. Propagation method of Sterculia lorida: •It propagates through seeds and is easy to cultivate. Planting time for Sterculia lorida: •Planted in the spring season. Planting method for Sterculia lorida: •First soak the seeds in water, and once they become soft, leave them in the open air until they dry. •After drying, place them in suitable soil at a depth of 1 cm. •Place in a sunny indoor location, and keep the soil moist by spraying it with a water spray bottle. •Reduce watering when the plant begins to appear. Fertilization method for Sterculia lorida: •It is necessary to regularly fertilize the tree with balanced NPK fertilizer once a month.