No explanation yet for exotic Dragon Blood tree’s premature death in Adelaide Park Lands

The exotic species is supposed to live for up to 400 years, but questions are bubbling about why its life was prematurely cut short.

A beloved rare tree in the Adelaide Park Lands has mysteriously died less than a third into its 400-year average lifespan, prompting authorities to investigate why.

The exotic Dragon Blood tree is native to parts of Africa, and was planted in 1903 near the Victoria Park Racecourse, opposite Britannia Roundabout and the site of the Adelaide 500 Supercars race.

Adelaide Park Lands Association president Shane Sody with the Dragon Blood tree. Kelly Barnes

The rare tree in the Adelaide Park Lands has mysteriously died less than a third of the way into its 400-year average lifespan, prompting authorities to investigate why. Kelly Barnes

However, in early December, park volunteers noticed it was completely barren, and testing by Adelaide City Council confirmed it was officially dead, meaning it will never again bear its distinctive, pointy leaves.

The Dragon Blood tree at Victoria Park, pictured here in bloom, was pronounced dead in December 2024. Picture: Phil McNamara / National Trust

Council’s horticulture team leader Matt Jorgensen said investigations are underway and “it is too early to speculate on the reasons why it happened”.

He said there was no sign of disease or infestation in the seven metre-tall trunk, but possible explanations included old age, differences to native climate and repeated nearby building works, meaning the area was less “settled”.

The tree could remain in place for native habitat, Mr Jorgensen said.

One of the few of its species in Adelaide, the National Trust named it a regionally significant tree in 2005 for its size, uniqueness and contribution to the landscape.

Adelaide Park Lands Association president Shane Sody said there was no certain cause yet, but wanted the council to investigate thoroughly, including any connection to nearby building works.

Shane Sody with the Dragon Blood tree. Kelly Barnes

Many members of the public expressed sadness at the organisation’s announcement on social media, as the tree was a landmark on its guided tours.

“I’m not in a position to point the figure at anything or anyone, but we have expressed the view many, many times that motor racing is not an appropriate use of what is meant to be an open, green, public space,” Mr Sody said.

“I hope we do find out why to prevent something like this from happening again … It will be disappointing that future generations won’t be able to see the tree which has been there for more than 100 years, and a lot of people are grieving that loss.”

Adelaide City Council said more information may be forthcoming in the weeks ahead.

Originally published as No explanation yet for exotic Dragon Blood tree’s premature death in Adelaide Park Lands