Is this a Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), which is native to eastern Australia and commonly found along the Queensland coast?
The distinctive features that identify it as a fig tree include:
- The massive, spreading buttress roots that extend dramatically from the base
- The smooth, pale gray bark
- The thick, muscular-looking trunk that divides into multiple large limbs
- The characteristic growth pattern of figs
Moreton Bay Figs are magnificent trees that can grow enormous in favorable conditions, and they’re particularly common in parks and coastal areas around the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers region. Given the camping setting visible in the background, this could be at one of the many caravan parks or camping grounds in the area that have preserved these majestic trees.
These trees have a fascinating growth habit – they sometimes start life as epiphytes high in other trees before sending roots down to the ground, eventually strangling their host tree. The extensive root system is both beautiful and functional, stabilizing these enormous trees.
As a child I would name it an Elephant Tree.
Trees have a soul, you can try to connect …
Spiritual Seekers know more …
Published Christmas Boxing Day 26 Dec 2025.
Author Peter H Bloecker and retired …
From the QLD Gold Coast Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2026.