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Statement of Significance

This is an outstanding specimen tree believed to be an inter-war period planting associated with the modifications and embellishment to Cumberland Street as a result of construction of the approaches to Sydney Harbour Bridge (completed 1932).
This Cockscomb Coral (Erythrina crista-galli) is an outstanding specimen tree which has historic significance through its association with the modifications and embellishment to Cumberland Street as a result of construction of the approaches to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This exotic tree's expansive canopy and massive leaning trunk makes a dramatic visual and aesthetic contribution to the streetscape.

It also has a massive root system which mergers with old stone work in this location. this particular Erythrina species is somewhat rare in the City of Sydney LGA and would be the largest specimen outside the Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens.

The Cockscomb Coral is considered to have individual significance in terms of its aesthetic, visual, cultural, historic, representative, associative and rarity values.

This is a single specimen located in a planting bed, adjacent to an old sandstone wall to outdoor court (King George v Memorial Park) immediately south of the Sydney Harbour Bridge Stairs. Its canopy extends over the footpath and partially over the roadway. Its extensive root zone has merged with remnants of a 19th century sandstone block wall and is likely to extend to footpath & court areas.
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Notes

Cockscomb Coral Tree, Harbour Bridge Stairs (2013).