Eucalyptus trees were introduced to California in the 1850's by prospectors from Australia. By the 1900's several thousand acres were planted in hopes the fast growing tree would be useful as wood for railroad ties, housing and even wood-crafts. The young trees were not as useful as the 
This stump is the remains of an eucalyptus that posed a danger to the nearby dwellings. older eucalyptus forests in Australia. The younger trees in California would split and warp during harvesting. Also, once dried the wood was difficult to drive nails through.
There are several species of eucalyptus in California. Eucalyptus globulus is found in Santa Cruz County and Monterey County. While the tree is used as a windbreak along highways and on farms, it can be argued the trees compete with native plants and do not support native animals. The thin outer bark peels off regularly and provides fuel danger for forest fires.
Eucalyptus trees thrive in river beds. Since the river bed is often the boundary of properties, the responsibility of the tree is often disputed or ignored.
In early stages, the shoots of the eucalyptus have a blue tint to the leaves. This can easily rub off to show the leaves are actually green. 
Eucalyptus trees can be very tall. This grove is in Soquel.
