Nestled within the urban landscape of Melbourne, a silent yet grand procession of trees stands as a testament to the city’s colonial past and its enduring love affair with nature. These are the elm trees, whose history is as rich and intertwined with Melbourne’s own as the roots beneath them.

The Arrival of the Elms

The story of Melbourne’s elms begins in the mid-19th century, a time when the young city was rapidly transforming from a fledgling settlement into a bustling metropolis. The settlers, hailing predominantly from Britain, sought to recreate the familiar landscapes of their homeland in this distant corner of the world. It was during this period that the first elm trees were introduced to Melbourne’s soil.

A Symbol of European Grandeur

The elm, with its broad canopy and elegant stature, was an ideal choice for the settlers’ vision. They envisioned avenues and parks lined with these majestic trees, providing shade and beauty to the inhabitants of the city. The earliest known planting occurred around 1845 at the Royal Botanic Gardens, followed by significant plantings at Fitzroy Gardens in 1859, Victoria Parade between 1878 and 1890, and Royal Parade between 1897 and 1915.

The Elm Species of Melbourne

The English Elm (Ulmus procera) and the Dutch Elm (Ulmus x hollandica) are the two predominant species found in Melbourne. The English Elm was particularly popular for park and avenue plantings in the 19th century, with one of the oldest known exotic trees in Victoria being a sole survivor of four planted in the Royal Botanic Gardens in 18461. The Dutch Elm, with its various cultivars, became a common sight in Australia, with ‘Major’ and ‘Vegeta’ being distributed in Victoria from the 1850s and 1860s, respectively.

Survivors of a Global Tragedy

As the elms flourished in Melbourne, their counterparts in the northern hemisphere faced a catastrophic threat. Dutch Elm Disease, a fungal infection spread by bark beetles, decimated elm populations across Europe and North America. Melbourne’s elms, isolated from this plight, became some of the most significant and mature specimens in the world.

Caring for the Elms

The City of Melbourne has taken steps to preserve this arboreal heritage. Initiatives such as the ‘citizen forester’ program encourage residents to participate in the care and monitoring of the elms, ensuring that these trees continue to thrive for generations to come.

The Threat of Elm Leaf Beetle

However, Melbourne’s elms face a new adversary—the elm leaf beetle (ELB). ELB adults eat through elm leaves, causing shot-holes, while the larvae skeletonise the leaves, leaving only the veins intact. This defoliation weakens mature elm trees and reduces their aesthetic value. Repeated ELB attacks make the trees more susceptible to other pests and diseases. If not controlled, a heavy infestation can lead to tree death. To read more on ELB, we have an article on the blog you will find helpful! -> What Is Elm Leaf Beetle?

A Living Heritage

Today, more than 6,000 elms grace Melbourne’s streets, boulevards, and parks, with an additional 11,000 within 10km of the CBD. These trees are not merely botanical specimens; they are living monuments, chronicling the city’s growth and its residents’ aspirations. The elms that adorn Victoria Parade and Royal Parade, along with the tree avenues in Fitzroy Gardens, are recognised as significant by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria).

The Future of Melbourne’s Elms

Despite their resilience, Melbourne’s elms face an uncertain future. The threat of Dutch Elm Disease looms, and the trees are also contending with the challenges posed by climate change. As Melbourne grows hotter and drier, the suitability of elms for the city’s future green spaces is called into question.

The Role of AQF 5 Consulting Arborists

To maintain healthy elm trees, consulting arborists play a crucial role. These experts, often AQF Level 5 qualified, provide specialist advice on tree health, risk assessment, and management. Their thorough assessments help identify risks, recommend treatments, and ensure the longevity of Melbourne’s iconic elms. Whether it’s assessing tree impact during development or conducting tree risk assessments, consulting arborists contribute significantly to preserving our arboreal heritage.

In conclusion, Melbourne’s elm trees are not just part of the city’s landscape; they are a bridge to its past and a beacon for its future. Let us continue to care for these living monuments, celebrating their resilience and beauty for generations to come. 🌿🌳