Re: Downunder plants

**G*@aol.com**

Tony:
You're probably aware that eucalyptus trees are having problems here in 
California, many dying from a disease not yet eradicated. For many years we 
appreciated your kind gift of these magnificent trees. We originally brought 
them here in the 1800s to use for the wood--it was a time when wagon tongues, 
singletrees, doubletrees--all made from wood were at a premium in the west in 
and around mining camps. The quick growth rate of eucalyptus made them prime 
candidates for that industry. Unfortunately, you folks forgot to tell us that 
the grain was so twisted on those giant trees, such as blue gum, red gum, 
viminalis, etc. that you couldn't make anything out of them. So while that 
industry went down the tube, those hardy souls in those days then began 
selling them for windbreaks in the agricultural areas where wind was a 
problem, and many of those we still see today are those old windbreaks. Many 
were planted as ornamentals too, but that was never a major use of them. 
Today, the poor old eucalyptus is used mostly for firewood in Southern 
California. Makes a great fire, and we don't have any oaks down here to speak 
of.

Other plants, such as phormium and the proteas are still in common use, and 
Proven Winners has done well in promoting the Dandenong Daisies for home use.

Gerald Burke
Flower Power Columnist
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