This page is about Athel Pine tree removal and pruning. For more detailed and general information about tree removal see our Tree Removal & Pruning Guide.

Athel Pine (Tamarix Aphylla) is an invasive weed of national significance. It is one of the worst weeds in Australia for its potential to spread, and its economic and environmental impact.

Native to Northern Africa and Asia, the Athel Pine was first introduced to Australia in 1930’s for its shade protection and erosion control.

NSW Noxious Weed

Athel Pine was present for some time before it became a weed. Seeds, and more commonly, revegetation of plant parts being the main mechanisms of reproduction. Some believe it proliferated throughout the floods in the 1970’s and 80’s. When waterways carried its seeds and vegetation debris down stream.

Here’s some of the reasons why Athel Pine is considered a noxious weed:

• Consumes water more quickly than natives. Reducing number and quality of watering holes.
• Invades both arid landscapes and waterways.
• Concentrates salt making the surrounding grounds more salty, excluding native grass and other salt sensitive plants.
• Infestations into national parks reduce the cultural and aesthetic value, and reduce tourism.

Athel Pine Tree Characteristics

• Contrary to the name, the Athel Pine is in fact not a pine, yet gets the name because of its pine-like leaves.
• Medium sized tree growing up to 15m in height.
• Thick trunk up to 1m in diameter.
• Dark grey to black bark, with grey-brown stems.
• Small pinkish-white flowers growing on 30-40mm long spikes.
• Cylindrical seeds have a tuft of fine hairs which assists wind dispersal.

Tree Mistaken Identity

Before you begin any tree work, you first need to correctly identify your tree. There are heavy fines for damaging or removing a protected tree. And this includes any trees that are misidentified and removed under false pretence.

Athel pine resemble native she-oaks (Casuarina and Allocasuarina species), and are found in similar habitats. Some key differences include:

• Segments of she-oak needles are 5–10 mm long, whereas the segments on athel pine needles are only 1–2 mm long.
• The hard, woody she-oak fruit resembles a small pine cone, whereas athel pine fruit is tiny and bell shaped.

Athel Pine Tree Removal & Pruning

As a weed in NSW, many LGA’s allow Athel Pine removal and pruning without a permit. That said, every LGA is different. Some have relaxed restrictions, while others, like Blacktown City Council, require a permit for all tree work.

Even where no permit is required, you may still need to document proof, which may include an arborist report to certify the tree species and condition. This may be needed at a later date if required by local council.

You also have a general biosecurity duty in NSW to prevent or minimise the risk Athel Pine may pose. When carrying out tree work, you need to remove the root system (when removing the tree) and securely dispose of plant materials to prevent regeneration.

As you can see, there are many things to consider. Especially when you are removing a noxious weed. Contact us for help identifying your tree, and navigating your local LGA restrictions. When you book a site visit and quotation, we’ll inspect and identify your tree, and help clarify all applicable LGA restrictions.

Alternatively, you can get a Tree Price Guide using our online estimate tool. Please note, this price guide is a self assessment tool. We may still need to do a site visit before confirming your quote.