Rediscover the significant trees of Centennial Park

Did you know that there are over 15,000 trees, with 230 tree species in the collection at Centennial Park? They not only provide us with oxygen and shady picnic spots but also critical habitat for wildlife. Despite how many visits to Centennial Parklands, visitors are often awe-struck by our majestic trees and don't know the stories that linger behind the leaves. 

Here are at the Parklands we celebrate these remarkable plants everyday, but we are highlighting our significant trees for National Tree Day and providing visitors with a Forest Bathing Walk and a map to our special Tree Trail. Keep reading to learn more about our favourite trees and be sure to tell us which species you find extraordinary!

1. The Queens Park Giants, Moreton Bay figs

There are three giant Moreton Bay figs (Ficus macrophylla) in the Northern part of Queens Park estimated to be older than the Park, which was opened in 1888. The three figs are all growing near each other can be found bordering the Park to the East. These are some of the best examples of this iconic tree that can be found in Sydney.

2. A place for quite relaxation in Musgrave Pond, Southern live oak

This magnificent Southern live oak (Quercus virginiana) can be found on the Eastern side of Musgrave Pond. At 99 years old it’s not the oldest but is the largest of our oaks at the Parklands. This is one of only five Centennial Parklands trees recorded on the National Register of Big Trees. The spiralling canopy gives a sense of other worldliness and is a great place to meditate and be at one with nature.

3. The next generation in Sandstone Ridge, Rainbow Gums

Centennial Parklands tree population is constantly changing with 150 new trees planted in the last year. Among the latest arrivals are five rainbow gums (Eucalyptus deglupta) generously donated to our collection by The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Just planted in July 2018 in the reliably moist soils of Sandstone Ridge, they are quite small now but will grow and develop the stunning rainbow-coloured bark this tree is famous for. Rainbow gums come from high-rainfall tropical forests in and is the only eucalyptus species indigenous to the Northern Hemisphere. While in Sandstone Ridge why not enjoy the magnificent plantation of Eucalyptus grandis which offers a fantastic photo opportunity as sunlight floods in through the forest.

4. A Thousand Memories, Broad leafed paperbark - Parkes Drive

Located adjacent to Parkes Drive in Centennial Park (between Grand Drive and Paddington Gates), Paperbark Grove was planted in 1899. The grove follows a natural watercourse and has matured to form a unique avenue which has provided a magnificent setting for thousands of Sydney weddings and special occasions. Many treasured memories for Sydneysiders have been captured with Paperbark Grove providing a stunning backdrop.

5. Our favourite tree, Tuckeroo - Horse track west Dickens Drive

Listed on the National Register of Big Trees this Tuckeroo is one of the best examples of the species to be found in Sydney. Under the canopy, you can get lost in the majesty of nature and be transported to a place far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is many of the arboriculture team’s favourite tree in the collection.

You can discover these tree for yourself with the map below.

National Tree Day is on Sunday 28 July, and you can discover more information about the 15,000 trees in the Centennial Parklands through our free, downloadable Tree Trail. On the trail you will find old trees, ancient dinosaur species, food trees, habitat trees, historical trees, as well as native, exotic and invasive species.

Families can also join the friendly gum trees Iron & Bloss on an interactive theatre adventure through Centennial Park on National Tree Day. Learn more and book your spot here. 

You can also try out our Forest Bathing Sessions, and the amazing health benefits that they are shown to have.

Remember to tag us in your tree posts on Twitter and Instagram, @centparklands