Top 5 Tree Species in Melbourne That Commonly Need Pruning or Removal
Melbourne’s streets and backyards are packed with characterful trees. Some grow quickly, some drop heavy branches, and others send roots towards pipes and paving. This guide looks at five species we’re called to most often, why they need attention, and how to decide between pruning and removal. If you prefer a professional assessment, our qualified team can help with full tree services.
How to Decide: Pruning or Removal?
Start with safety. If a tree is failing, leaning, or shedding large limbs, bring in an arborist promptly. A professional tree inspection highlights structural defects you may not see from the ground. For routine upkeep, pruning usually does the job. When defects are advanced, or the tree is poorly sited, removal may be the safer long‑term option. For timing, see our guide on the best time of year to prune a tree, and for method selection, compare pruning vs lopping.
1) Eucalyptus (Gum Trees)
Iconic and fast‑growing, gums can shed limbs in hot, dry, or windy weather. Lightweight foliage with heavy branches makes them unpredictable near play areas, driveways, and roofs. Regular structural pruning reduces weight and improves clearance over paths and fences. If the tree has major decay, a history of large failures, or conflicts with powerlines and buildings, removal may be advised. We follow a careful, step‑by‑step approach as outlined in our tree removal process guide.
2) London Plane (Platanus × acerifolia)
Common along streets and large blocks, plane trees develop broad canopies and vigorous surface roots. Without maintenance, limbs can overreach gutters and solar panels. Seasonal pruning keeps the crown balanced and limits debris. Where roots are lifting paving or threatening pipes and footings, further investigations are sensible. If you’re worried about foundations, read our article on tree roots and house foundations.
3) Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis)
Palms add a coastal feel yet need specialised care. Old fronds and boots can drop, seed pods create mess, and mature palms are tall with limited rigging points. Skilled pruning keeps them tidy and safe around pools and paths. If the crown is failing, the site is too tight, or repeated clean‑ups are becoming costly, removal may be the practical choice. For sustainability and tidy sites, see how we handle materials in our guide to eco‑friendly tree removal.
4) Radiata Pine (Pinus radiata)
Radiata pines grow rapidly and can dominate smaller blocks. Heavy laterals, shallow roots, and wind exposure increase risk in storms. Pruning reduces sail effect and improves shape, but advanced defects or repeated limb failures point towards removal. If severe weather is forecast or damage has occurred, our team can assist with emergency tree services to make the area safe.
5) Willows (Salix species)
Willows thrive near waterways and damp ground. Fast growth, brittle limbs, and invasive roots make them frequent candidates for management. Strategic pruning improves clearance and reduces failure risk. Where encroachment is severe or the tree is undermining structures and drains, removal may be justified. Some willows are regulated or restricted, so it’s smart to check rules first. For an overview of approvals, head to tree removal permits in Melbourne.
Permits, Costs and What to Expect
Many councils assess trees by species, trunk size, overlays, and location. Getting advice early avoids delays and fines. We can guide you through the paperwork and provide clear pricing for pruning or removal. For ballpark figures, see tree removal costs in Melbourne. When you’re ready to proceed, our tree removal process explains how we plan, rig, and clean up with minimal disruption.
Book an Assessment
If you’re unsure whether to prune or remove, start with a friendly site visit. We’ll check species, structure, access, and nearby assets, then recommend a safe, practical plan for your property. Contact Dawson Tree Services for advice and a prompt quote.