Fig trees return to the University Mall

A seed collection and propagation program has enabled the University to plant four new trees grown from UNSW’s own heritage stock.

Four new Ficus rubiginosa (Port Jackson fig) trees were planted along the University Mall in late May to replace mature trees lost during the December 2024 storm. The trees were grown from seeds collected from UNSW’s century-old figs.

Grounds Manager Mark Clark started a seed collection program in 2019 to safeguard UNSW’s fig tree legacy. The veteran figs in Fig Tree Lane were more than 120 years old and had begun to show signs of age. Mark partnered with Trees Impact nursery to collect seeds and propagate a new generation of trees, grown with care over six years.

“These trees are part of a long-term sustainability effort to preserve the character and biodiversity of our campus,” said Mark.

“The storm was a setback, but it gave us a rare chance to replant the University Mall with something meaningful.”

The project also included mulch and defined turf rings to support the young trees as they establish.

The replanting reflects UNSW’s commitment to campus sustainability and heritage preservation as part of our work under Strategic Pillar 6 (Accelerate the transition to a sustainable society and planet) of the UNSW Strategy: Progress for All.

See more photos from the propagation and planting process on the UNSW Estate Management website.