The Eucalyptus tree may be Australia's most prolific export. It's not as objectionable as the Aussies current obsession with coal exports, but there are many who view the Eucalyptus as a dangerous export none the less.
In the 1800's the fast growing Eucalyptus was imported into California to provide wood for buildings. Unfortunately, the soft resin rich wood proved unsuitable for that purpose. Eucalyptus ended up as wind breaks and later developers latched onto the tree as a quick way to green out new housing tracts.
You can find groves of the trees all over the state (and the world for that matter). As noted, its a fast growing and highly invasive tree that easily pushes out slower growing native trees and as it litters the ground with its shedding bark, it also limits the growth of native flowering plants.
In California the battle over the Eucalyptus continues.
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