Family: Proteaceae
Common Name: Ivory curl flower

This Australian genus was previously known to contain only one species. Another has now been added. Both species are native to forests of the coastal ranges of Queensland where they grow in well-drained soils of volcanic origin. It is unlikely that this genus is available outside its country of origin.

Species

B. celsissima, ivory curl flower, is quite a beautiful tree, with attractive foliage that may extend from the top of the tree to ground level, and long, cream flower spikes, similar to grevillea. The flowers grow to 20 cm (8 in) in length and appear from mid to late summer from the time the tree is about three years old. It grows to heights of about 10 m (33 ft), although in its wild state it may reach 25 m (80 ft) or more.

B. fernuginiflora grows to about 30 m (100 ft) tall in its native habitat but as it has not been grown in gardens for very many years its ultimate height under cultivation is unknown. The flowers of this plant are perfumed and creamy in colour, but are covered with rusty brown hairs. The leaves tend to be lobed during some stages of growth but are simply shaped when they are more mature.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow ivory curl flower in a warm greenhouse or conservatory in pots of soil-based potting compost and provide maximum light. In warm, sunny, coastal areas, these relatively pest-free trees grow best in soil which is well-drained and rich in organic matter, provided they are exposed to plenty of moisture. They are best left unpruned, although some gardeners like to cut off the lower branches.

Climate

Zone 10.