Native Trees of Sydney: A Homeowner's Complete Guide

Sydney's Native Trees: An Overview

Sydney's native trees are an integral part of our city's character and ecology. From the iconic Sydney Blue Gum to the sculptural Angophora, these trees define our landscape and provide essential habitat for native wildlife. Understanding them helps you care for them properly—and avoid costly mistakes with council regulations.

Iconic Native Tree Species

Sydney Blue Gum (Eucalyptus saligna)

One of Sydney's most impressive trees, the Sydney Blue Gum is a tall, straight-trunked eucalypt that can reach 60+ metres in ideal conditions.

• Identification: Smooth, bluish-grey bark that sheds in long strips; lance-shaped leaves; white flowers December-February
• Common locations: Moist gullies, suburban parks, larger properties
• Council status: Protected in most Sydney councils
• Care notes: Tolerates pruning well but requires qualified arborists for large specimens; deep watering during drought

Sydney Red Gum (Angophora costata)

Perhaps Sydney's most recognisable native, the Angophora is known for its distinctive gnarled limbs and salmon-pink bark.

• Identification: Smooth, pink to salmon bark; broad, opposite leaves (unlike eucalypts); creamy white flowers November-December
• Common locations: Sandstone ridges, harbourside suburbs, bushland edges
• Council status: Strongly protected; often heritage-listed individually
• Care notes: Sensitive to root disturbance; avoid compaction or changes to soil level; responds poorly to heavy pruning

Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera)

A tall, distinctive tree with fibrous bark and a valuable role in Sydney's rainforest communities.

• Identification: Thick, fibrous, reddish-brown bark; glossy leaves; small white flower clusters
• Common locations: Rainforest margins, moist gullies
• Council status: Protected native
• Care notes: Generally low maintenance; drought tolerant once established; fire-resistant

Blackbutt (Eucalyptus pilularis)

A tall, handsome eucalypt common in Sydney's northern suburbs and Central Coast fringe.

• Identification: Rough, dark bark on lower trunk; smooth upper trunk; small round gumnuts
• Common locations: Well-drained ridges, sandy soils
• Council status: Protected
• Care notes: Tolerates light pruning; important koala food source in some areas

Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus haemastoma)

Named for the distinctive "scribbles" left by moth larvae under the bark.

• Identification: Smooth white bark with characteristic scribble patterns; small leaves
• Common locations: Sandy, sandstone areas; common in northern and southern suburbs
• Council status: Protected
• Care notes: Sensitive to changes in hydrology; shallow roots vulnerable to compaction

Port Jackson Fig (Ficus rubiginosa)

Sydney's most common native fig, often seen as a buttressed giant in parks and gardens.

• Identification: Large, spreading canopy; distinctive buttress roots; oval leaves with rusty underside
• Common locations: Throughout Sydney, often on sandstone
• Council status: Often heritage-listed; always check before any work
• Care notes: Extensive root systems—consider carefully before planting; excellent wildlife habitat. See our fig tree removal guide

Bangalow Palm (Archontophoenix cunninghamiana)

A graceful native palm that adds a tropical feel to Sydney gardens.

• Identification: Slender grey trunk with ring marks; arching fronds; small purple fruit
• Common locations: Rainforest areas, creek lines, gardens
• Council status: Protected native
• Care notes: Prefers moist, protected positions; regular old frond removal keeps them tidy

Lilly Pilly (Syzygium species)

A group of native rainforest trees popular for hedging and screening.

• Identification: Glossy leaves; fluffy white flowers; pink or purple edible berries
• Common locations: Rainforest edges, gardens throughout Sydney
• Council status: Usually protected if significant size
• Care notes: Susceptible to Myrtle Rust and Psyllid; regular pruning helps manage pests

Council Protection of Native Trees

Most Sydney councils have Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) that specifically protect native trees. Understanding these protections is essential before any work. Read our detailed TPO guide.

Common Protection Criteria

• Height over 4-6 metres (varies by council)
• Trunk diameter over 30-40cm at breast height
• Listed heritage or significant trees
• Native species may have lower thresholds than exotics

Penalties for Illegal Removal

Removing protected native trees without approval can result in:

• Fines from $3,000 to over $1 million for significant trees
• Required remediation plantings (often 2:1 or higher ratios)
• Criminal prosecution in severe cases

Always contact your local council or engage a qualified arborist before removing any native tree.

Caring for Native Trees

Watering

Established native trees are generally drought-tolerant, but:

• Water deeply during extended drought (monthly)
• Newly planted natives need regular water for 2-3 years
• Avoid frequent shallow watering—it encourages surface roots

Mulching

• Apply 75-100mm of mulch in a wide ring
• Keep mulch 100mm away from the trunk
• Use native mulches where possible
• Replenish annually as it breaks down

Pruning

• Native trees generally need less pruning than exotics
• Remove deadwood regularly—it's exempt from TPOs
• Major pruning should be done by qualified arborists
• Timing matters less for most natives than deciduous trees

Protecting Roots

Root damage is a leading cause of native tree decline:

• Avoid excavation within the drip line
• Don't raise or lower soil levels around established trees
• Prevent vehicle parking under trees
• Use hand digging near roots instead of machinery

Wildlife Value

Native trees are essential for Sydney's wildlife:

• Eucalypts: Nectar for honeyeaters, Rainbow Lorikeets, and Flying Foxes; hollows for possums, owls, and cockatoos
• Figs: Fruit supports dozens of bird species; critical food source year-round
• Banksias: Essential nectar source for small birds and Eastern Pygmy Possums
• Lilly Pillies: Fruit for birds; dense foliage for nesting

Consider this wildlife value when making decisions about tree removal—alternatives like pruning may preserve important habitat.

Common Problems with Native Trees

Branch Drop

Eucalypts are known for sudden branch drop, especially in hot weather. Regular deadwood removal and arborist inspections reduce this risk.

Limb Failure

Large natives can develop structural weaknesses over time. Professional assessment identifies hazards before failure.

Pest and Disease

While natives are adapted to local conditions, they're not immune. See our tree disease guide for common problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove a native tree on my property?

It depends on your council's TPO and the tree's size. Most native trees over 4-6m height or 30cm trunk diameter require council approval. An arborist report may be needed to support your application.

Are gum trees dangerous?

Eucalypts can drop branches, especially in hot, calm weather. Regular maintenance and professional assessment reduce risks significantly. They're not inherently more dangerous than other large trees when properly maintained.

How do I identify my native tree?

Look at bark type, leaf shape and arrangement, flowers, and fruits. Many phone apps can help identify species from photos. Alternatively, a professional arborist can accurately identify your tree and advise on care.

Should I plant native trees in my garden?

Natives are excellent choices—they're adapted to local conditions, support wildlife, and require less water once established. Choose species appropriate to your soil type and available space.