Howto save a Moreton Bay Fig from phellinus sublamaensis

Garry Bume

We have a 130 foot high Moreton Bay Fig which seems to be suffering from phellinus sublamaensis (fungi). Does anyone know whether this tree can be saved?? The tree is probably around 80-100 years old.

Sean Freeman

Hi Gary,

There are way too many variables to be able answer your question properly on a forum, the tree would need to be physically inspected and (I would expect) depending on the extent of visible indicators perhaps numerrous samples taken for assessment...soil, fungi, stem tissues, leaves.

Is it possible to improve the soil environment for trees being overwhelmed by wood decay fungi acting parasitcally? Yes sometimes it is....just how significant the impact such improvements is in terms of both the short and long term outcomes for the tree is less certain.

There are numerous good qualified Arborists around with experience in providing the kind of plant health care I suspect your tree might need.

Personally I would want someone who has an understanding of soil biology and experience in enhancing that biology for optimum tree health.

Having said all that it is quite likely that the wood decay fungi you believe to be the major protagonist is merely the last in a long line of cumulative negative impacts on your tree. In other words by the time it becomes obvious that an established tree has serious health issues, it is often very very hard (but not necessarily impossible) to arrest and then reverse that decline spiral.


You need to have someone come out and look at and touch your tree in person.