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The Trees in the Suburbs around Perth, Western Australia

© John Bottomley

I suppose because of, or perhaps in spite of, the arguments between conservationists and the loggers in the South West of Western Australia my mind constantly turns towards trees and their use and their choice in gardens in the suburbs. Trees, along with other bushes and plants in gardens and along the road verge will save water and fertiliser, as well as contributing to the overall satisfactory condition of the surrounding environment. I believe this also helps to protect local streams and wetlands. Although with the development going on around the city of Perth, there soon won't be any wetlands left. Or am I being too pessimistic. Nevertheless, help in protecting streams and wetlands can be done by using water wisely, and by joining community tree planting programs. Native plants filter pollution and provide habitats for wildlife. An example of a local tree, Actinostrobrus pyramidalis or swamp cypress is one of the only two conifers native to the Perth, Western Australia Region. The tree is handsome and candle-flame shaped tree, and has dense and dark green foliage. Male and female cones are born on the same plant. The female cones are to be found on the base side of the branches all the year round. Male cones, which are smaller, terminate at the ends of the branches, and the young cones occur from August to November. The cones have quite a decorative pattern. The tree is to be found in clay/sandy soil, which are subject to winter inundation. There is some possibility that the trees will have invasive roots, consequently it is as well to avoid planting near to drains. A sight common to many streets around the suburbs of Perth is the Agonis flexuosa, commonly known as the Peppermint. It is a very quick growing tree and will reach approximately 15 metres in height (50 feet) and is 8 metres (26 feet across). When old, the trunk of the tree becomes thickened and contorted. Small white perfumed flowers cluster along the branches from August to December. Very hardy, the peppermints prefer moist soils, and can thrive in exotic lawns or gardens. Once established they can thrive in dry conditions. The tree is a good substitute for a weeping willow, which has very active roots. Again this tree has very invasive roots and can be a nuisance near drains. A tree from which nectar was extracted by the Aboriginal people either by sucking it, or soaking the flower spikes with some water in a paperbark-lined hole in the ground is the Banksia attenuata, the Candle Banksia. The nectar makes a very sweet drink.