[1][2] On 20 July 2017 the university announced the replacement of the jacaranda with a genetically identical clone, and a native Illawarra flame tree in the opposite corner.

It was planted by Eben Gowrie Waterhouse, who was McCaughey associate professor of German and comparative literature and also a camellia expert.

Students were blamed for several failed efforts after young trees were ripped out and frustrated Committee members passed "motions deploring the actions of 'irresponsible vandals'".

[9] Eventually, the planting succeeded and over its life, the jacaranda's canopy grew to a width of 18 metres (59 ft), becoming both "grand" and "iconic".

[9] Sydney University's jacaranda formed the backdrop to many public and private events that took place in the quadrangle, including graduations and weddings.

[14] The trees on the Register are selected on the basis of their "historical, cultural, social, ecological or outstanding visual and aesthetic appeal".

[14] The university issued a press release reminding students that the tree had begun to bloom and wished "them all well for their final weeks of study for 2016".