The flat top style has its origin in two Acacia species found only in Africa, namely Acacia sieberana and Acacia abyssinica.

These magnificent trees are found in the warmer parts of Africa and have a particular branch formation that inspired Charles to create a new African style.

The A. sieberana is a huge deciduous tree with widespread branches which form a flattened circle similar to the spokes of a wheel when viewed from above.

The A. abyssinica, found in Ethiopia has a more slender trunk and appears more delicate than that of the sieberana.

The interesting trademark of these two trees is that the top growth is short, hence the unique flat top.