The Tuart Tree in Perth

Few trees say "Perth" quite like the tuart. Eucalyptus gomphocephala is the great native of the Swan Coastal Plain - a broad, grey-barked eucalypt that once formed open woodlands right across the limestone dunes from Perth south to Busselton. You'll still find magnificent old tuarts shading riverside and coastal suburbs, and they're worth understanding before you prune or remove one.

Where tuarts grow

Tuart is tied to the Spearwood dune system - the calcareous limestone-and-sand country that runs down the western side of Perth through suburbs like Spearwood, Hamilton Hill, the western-suburbs riverside and the coast. It's one of the reasons these areas feel so leafy. Tuart woodland is now much reduced, which is exactly why so many remaining trees are protected.

Caring for a tuart

Tuarts are tough, slow-growing hardwoods adapted to poor sandy soils and dry summers, so an established one needs little - mostly deadwooding to remove dead limbs and the occasional light crown reduction where a branch threatens the house. Avoid heavy cutting; like most natives, tuarts don't respond well to it. For the wider picture see our native trees in Perth guide.

Before you remove one

Because tuarts are a declining and significant species, councils across Perth commonly protect them. Removing one without approval can mean a serious fine - so always check first (our can I cut down a tree in Perth guide explains the process).

Get tuart advice

Got a big tuart that needs attention? San's Tree Service prunes, deadwoods and - where it's permitted - removes them safely. Call (08) 9560 6103 for free, honest advice.

Frequently asked questions

How do I identify a tuart tree?

Tuart (Eucalyptus gomphocephala) is a large eucalypt with rough, fibrous grey bark, a broad spreading crown and creamy flowers. It grows on the limestone-rich Spearwood dune sands of the Swan Coastal Plain, often near the coast and river.

Can I remove a tuart tree?

Tuarts are a declining, ecologically significant species and are frequently protected by Perth councils. Check with your local council before any removal - and consider pruning or crown reduction first, since a healthy tuart is worth keeping.