Melbourne has some of the most significant mature elm trees in the world after Dutch Elm Disease almost totally destroyed elm populations in the northern hemisphere. Notable examples to appear on the National Trust Significant Tree Register are the:

• avenue plantings of English Elm on Royal Parade
• avenue of London Plane in Carlton Gardens
• English Elm avenue in Fitzroy Gardens
• sole Golden Elm at the intersection of Punt Road and Alexandra Avenue

There are ten native trees listed on the National Trust Significant Tree Register including Aboriginal scar trees that are found in Yarra Park and Fitzroy Gardens.

Many of Melbourne’s trees are approaching the end of their useful life due to a combination of age and the combined stresses of extended drought, extreme heat and water restrictions.