Tree of the month | Angophora costata

January Tree of the Month 

Ascot Vale’s Smooth Bark Apple Myrtle 

Location: Newsom Street, Ascot Vale 

Common name: Sydney Red Gum or Smooth Bark Apple Myrtle

Botanical name: Angophora costata

Trunk circumference: 3.10 metres

Our January edition of the Tree of the Month series celebrates one of the loveliest native trees in Moonee Valley, standing in Newsom Street, Ascot Vale (south of Bettina Court). This impressive example of Angophora costata is widely regarded as one of the finest trees of its kind in the municipality and is well known and loved by the local community. 

January tree of the month

Angophora costata, commonly known as the Smooth Bark Apple Myrtle or Sydney Red Gum, is an Australian native tree admired for its smooth bark and distinctive flowers. While it can look like a eucalypt at first glance, there are a couple of distinguishing features that set it apart. Unlike eucalypts, Angophora flowers do not have a cap covering the bud, and their flowers develop with small petals. Another distinguishing feature is the foliage. Angophora trees retain opposite leaves throughout their life, whereas many eucalypts only display opposite leaves during their juvenile stage before changing form as they mature. 

The Angophora on Newsom Street is particularly notable, with a trunk circumference measuring approximately 3.10 metres. Its strong and reliable branches make this species a popular choice for street trees, and its colourful trunk is especially eye-catching during January. 

Like all trees, Angophoras follow natural seasonal cycles. This species sheds bark, rather than leaves, predominantly in December. By January, this process is usually complete, revealing the smooth trunk beneath, a reminder that evergreen and deciduous trees alike go through regular cycles of growth, renewal and change. 

You may spot other Angophora costata trees scattered throughout the municipality, so keep an eye out as you explore your neighbourhood!