Brachychiton is a genus of 30 or more species, placed in the Malvaceae family, most of which occur in tropical parts of Australia in dry areas or in rainforest. They are large shrubs or trees. One of the most commonly cultivated is the Illawarra flame tree, Brachychiton acerifolius, which is popular due to its spectacular crimson flowers. The Kurrajong, Brachychiton populneus, is one of the most widely distributed and is also a common tree in cultivation.

Brachychiton acerifolius is a large deciduous tree that hails from tropical and subtropical regions on the east coast of Australia. It is famous for the bright red bell-shaped flowers that often cover the whole tree when it is leafless. It is commonly known as the flame tree, Illawarra flame tree, lacebark tree, or (along with other members of the genus) kurrajong. It may reach 30 to 35 m in height in its natural habitat, but is usually shorter in cultivation. Brachychiton acerifolius is very popular as an ornamental tree both in its native Australia and around the world. The flowering is a spectacular event, as it sheds its leaves just prior to producing masses of bright scarlet flowers over the entire tree. It is used for street plantings, public parks and gardens, and in private gardens.