The Bulb (Roots): This
begins to form underground when seedlings are as small as 10cm high and slowly
elongate, protruding above ground level as the tree increases in age and
height. Young trees growing a tap root to about 1 metre then grow finer
surface roots from the base of the bulb (bottle). Because the surface
roots are sparse, the bottle tree is suitable for growing in lawns and in garden
beds, as they don't compete for nourishment and moisture.
Wood: It is a softly,
pithy, fibrous substance of no commercial value.
How Much Area Do They Nee To
Grow In?
Generally a 3 square metre site,
this will allow for a fine
canopy to develop. A
smaller area is okay, but the
canopy will need to be pruned,
which promotes thick growth for
excellent shade cover.
