Trees are an integral part of the living landscape, each species unique and intricately adapted to its own micro environment. Although all trees have distinctive qualities that define their individual characters, there are certain trees that stand tall amongst others. These are the Champion Trees, trees that have been recognized for their impressive height, massive girth, great age or heritage significance. Four magnificent trees in the Arderne Gardens have been attributed champion status by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. A slow walk around the arboretum following the numbered sequence of the different trees will offer an opportunity to view these truly remarkable trees. The Arderne Gardens were additionally declared a National Historical Monument in 1979, as attested to by the plaque at the entrance to the garden.

Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla)

This majestic tree with its impressive roots and branches that spread out more than 30 meters is native to Australia.

Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)

The tallest of the Champion Trees at around 43 meters high, it is endemic to the Norfolk Island in the Pacific Ocean.

Queensland Kauri (Agathis robusta)

Originating from Queensland in Australia, this impressive tree is over 100 years old and can grow up to 50 meters high.

Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis)

Having deep roots that enable it to endure drought conditions, the Aleppo Pine is native to the Mediterranean region.

In addition to these officially recognised Champion Trees, the Friends of the Arderne Gardens have identified a further 15 unofficial “champion trees” which are worthy of attention, making 21 in all. A map of the garden identifies their location and presents a lovely walk if one follows the numbered sequence of the trees. Below are some illustrations of these magnificent trees.  A brochure containing the map is obtainable from the pharmacy across the road from the entrance to the gardens.

Tree Map

As part of the ongoing development of the garden, many more trees will be planted over the coming months in keeping with FOTAG’s aim to develop Arderne Garden into a special Southern Hemisphere arboretum and at the same time, plant trees for the future enjoyment of the garden’s visitors

List of Trees

A thorough tree survey of the trees in Arderne Garden was conducted in 2015 and 414 trees are now listed. The bulk of this work was done by Adam Harrower of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens based on the original tree research map or Richard Jamieson. Visiting botanists that have assisted wth this work include Gary Shanks, Alasdair Moore, Adam Bligh, Jan Burring, Anne Bean (FOTAG), Martin Grantham and Thomas Pakenham.