The death of Perth's backyard has been well documented, but what about the death of the big, shady backyard tree?

They're still present in Perth's most affluent suburbs, like the leafy Mosman Park or Nedlands, and they're considered to add value to properties, so why have homeowners in Perth's new estates and sub-divisions developed a 'tree-phobia'?

Perth suburbs are experiencing the decline of the shady backyard tree. Credit:iStock

Murdoch University sustainability expert Chris Ferreira said residents had turned their backs on Perth's former 'big three' trees – the Tuart, Jarrah and Marri – and were instead buying shrubs and plants to complement their home's architecture.

"People are just not purchasing shade trees anymore, they think they're too big and too messy and instead, they're going for upright trees and hedge plants," he said.