Red Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia), Riddell Parade

Statement of significance:

This tree fulfils the criteria of:

• Aesthetic value
• Outstanding habitat and biodiversity value

This is a particularly well-formed example of the species, with a domed, spreading canopy as wide as it is tall. Isolated on VicTrack land but providing excellent screening of the rail line from the streetscape, this tree has been left to grow naturally, with the canopy reaching the ground in some areas. The tree makes a substantial contribution to the local landscape and neighbourhood character, providing amenity to the community.

Although a non-indigenous native tree species, it has been identified by residents as providing a significant food resource for many native birds such as rainbow lorikeets and wattle birds. It is one of the larger and more mature trees along the rail corridor through Elsternwick which has previously been identified as a crucial wildlife corridor in the Biodiversity in Glen Eira Report.