Brachyton! I've never heard of it and can find no reference to it. Do you mean Brachychiton? Also, I can find no B. 'Jerilderie red'. Can you post a picture? Brachychiton acerifolius is a fairly common Aussie native and goes by the common name of 'Illawarra Flame Tree'; deciduous just before bursting out in brilliant red flowers in late spring, early summer, the same time as Jacaranda; in fact they look quite stunning planted in the same vicinity. I've grown it and never found it to have irritating hairs!

Oops yes, sorry. Initially wasn't sure as the sticker on the pot is abbreviated. It is brachychiton. The plant itself is not in the best of health. It is a grafted hybrid apparently, if this link is correct- and if links are accepted on this site: http://www.gardenassets.com.au/catalogue/brachychiton-jerilderie-red-14.html

That sounds perfect, as we just planted a jacaranda in the garden! Thanks for the information, sounds like it won't be an issue for us. I actually repotted it this afternoon, and after seeing those roots I am not sure the tree itself will be an issue, fingers crossed.

It's only the seed pods that are an issue. When they ripen and split, the inside of the pods, and the seeds, are covered with tiny hairs like glass, that can be imbedded in the skin and cause irritation. It will probably take many years for your tree to flower. If it sets seeds, the pods take almost a year to mature... well and truly time to lop them off. If anyone forgets, there's also plenty of time to pick up fallen pods and teach children to avoid. Not a big price to pay for such a pretty tree.

When I was at school some students were fond of stuffing the open pods of this or a similar species down the shirts of fellow students. Irritating to the skin & wounding to the pride but as far as I know no long term physical damage was done.

Thanks everyone, that is very helpful.