up a gum tree

"Up a gum tree" is a colloquial expression that means being in a difficult or challenging situation from which it is difficult to escape or find a solution. It implies being stuck, at a loss, or in a predicament without a clear way out. It originated from the practice of climbing trees by hunting dogs while chasing prey, usually possums, and getting stuck on the branches, specifically gum trees, which have smooth bark making it difficult for the dogs to get a grip and come back down. This phrase is commonly used in British and Australian English.