Through progressive landscape and urban forestry policies over the past thirty years, Singapore has achieved its aim of becoming a 'green tropical city of excellence' and is a classic example of how environmental improvements have attracted both high technology industries and financial services to the city. The history of forest conservation and tree planting in Singapore is outlined. Urban forestry co-ordination between the main agencies is also described together with the choice of tree species used in the major planting schemes which give such character to the city.