Queensland Bottle Tree
If you want to plant a tree to get the neighbours talking then this is the one for you. The Bottle Tree is a hardy and adaptable Australian native; it tolerates a variety of climates and soil types and can be grown in a large pot in cooler regions. The unique swollen ‘bottle shaped’ trunk develops in 5–7 years, giving it a comical look, like something you would expect to see in a Dr Seuss book! Slow growth rate.
Plant in full sun in enriched soils, though adaptable to a range of conditions. Drought tolerant once established but benefits from supplementary watering. May drop leaves during dry periods, otherwise almost evergreen.