Far North Queensland is home to a whole array of tropical greenery. These iconic trees have become botanical landmarks of Cairns.
Welcome to Cairns! Otherwise known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the surrounding area of Cairns hosts some of Australia’s most interesting tropical plants. From droopy vines, twisting snake-like branches, and shrubs that pop with vivid jungle colours, Far North Queensland boasts a whole display of jungle beauty.
We’ve selected five essential native trees that you can spot on common walkways and trails near Cairns.
1. Curtain Fig Tree
No trip to Cairns would be complete without a visit to the Curtain Fig Tree. This magical tree has a fascinating history, and it’s grown into a memorable tourist spot near Cairns.
It is just a reminder of just how unique and magical Australian nature is. Its growth seems to defy the laws of nature: The tree grew miraculously – it started as a tiny fig seed that was dropped by an animal into the tree’s crown.
The tree grew and took the seed with it – some 20 metres above the ground. The fig tree eventually engulfed the original tree with aerial roots that aimed for the ground. This strangled the host tree, which now supports the viny roots that reach downwards.
Where can you see the Curtain Fig Tree?
Spot the Curtain Fig Tree on the outskirts of Yungaburra within the Atherton Tablelands area. It has become a huge attraction for tourists, and you’ll be able to spot the tree on your drive through Atherton Tablelands. If you are coming from Yungaburra, aim for Atherton and you’ll start seeing signs that signify that you’re approaching the iconic tree. There’s parking very close by.
2. Weeping Lilly Pilly
With pink flowers that blossom every summer and pretty winter fruits, the Weeping Lilly Pilly tree is a Cairns icon. It’s an evergreen species that’s also found in New Zealand (called the Monkey Apple in New Zealand).
3. Gum trees
Did you know…there are over 900 varieties of gum trees? Another native icon, the gum trees offer plenty of habitats for Australia’s native fauna and flora – including koalas. These trees grow up to a whopping 45 metres.
Wild banana
The wild banana trees are a Queensland staple – especially as most of the country’s bananas come from Queensland. The banana trees along the sides of the roads are an iconic part of the Far North Queensland landscape, and they line the perimeters of the road, making for an interesting addition to your drive around Far North Queensland.
It’s very common for lots of banana trees to grow in the Atherton Tablelands – and you’ll see many banana farms while travelling around the area.
Don’t forget to look out for banana stands on the side of the road! Local growers sell their bananas by the kilo.
Lemon myrtle trees
Giving off citrussy aromas as you walk past, lemon myrtle trees give off refreshing scents and pretty leaves.
These lemon myrtle trees grow up to around 3 metres and have soft green leaves on the end of them.
(Banner image credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia
Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.