Why is it in the News?

The Kerala government issued an order allowing the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to plant eucalyptus trees for its financial sustenance in 2024-2025.

What is the Eucalyptus Tree?

• Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree, one of the most widely cultivated trees native to Australia.
  • In Australia, they are commonly referred to as gum trees or stringybark trees.
• The eucalyptus, which is an invasive species of flora, was planted in large numbers by the British in the areas surrounding Nilgiris.
• Many eucalyptus species are cultivated globally as shade trees and in forestry plantations.

Features:

• Bark: Eucalyptus trees have gum-infused bark.
• Leaves: They feature long stems and circular leaves, which are difficult to digest if eaten whole.
• Flowers: Small flowers grow on eucalyptus trees, available in various colours including white, yellow, and shades of red.
• Capsules: Eucalyptus produces small woody capsules that contain seeds.

Uses of Eucalyptus:

• Medicinal Properties: Eucalyptus is widely valued for its medicinal benefits. Some species' leaves contain oil with a strong aroma, primarily composed of cineole (eucalyptol), along with flavonoids and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Respiratory Relief: Eucalyptus oil is well-known for relieving congestion and easing breathing during colds.
• Pain Relief: The oil is also used as a topical treatment for sore muscles, aching joints, and rheumatism, improving blood circulation when applied.
• Wood: Eucalyptus wood is tough and durable, making it ideal for building furniture and fences.

Eucalyptus Plantations in India:

• Species: The most widely planted eucalypts in India are Eucalyptus tereticornis and Eucalyptus hybrid.
• Regions: It is extensively grown in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Mysore, Kerala, and the Nilgiri Hills.
• Growing Conditions: Eucalyptus thrives in deep, fertile, well-drained loamy soil with adequate moisture.

Dangers of Eucalyptus Tree:

• Water: Eucalyptus trees have a terrible reputation as extensive water users and significant contributors to soil depletion.
  • While they do need copious quantities of water, their colossal taproot can find moisture even in the most barren areas.
  • This voracious appetite helps maintain their incredibly rapid growth.
• Toxicity: Eucalyptus plant foliage is toxic to animals and humans if ingested.
• Exploding: Eucalyptus oil gives off flammable fumes, and these fumes can be ignited by lightning, flying sparks, and cinders, causing the tree to explode.

Fireballs: During brush or forest fires, the eucalyptus species releases great quantities of flammable gas that mix with air to produce fireballs full of sparks and embers exploding out in front of the fire.