Eucalyptus trees are highly flammable due to a combination of their physical and chemical properties:
1.High Oil Content:
•Eucalyptus leaves and bark contain volatile oils (such as cineole), which are highly flammable. These oils can ignite easily and contribute to intense, fast-spreading fires.
2.Shedding Bark:
•Eucalyptus trees shed their bark in long strips or flakes, which accumulate around the base of the tree. This dry, fibrous material acts as excellent kindling, quickly catching fire and helping flames spread.
3.Dense Canopy and Leaf Litter:
•Eucalyptus trees produce a lot of leaf litter, which builds up on the ground. This layer of dried leaves provides continuous fuel for wildfires.
4.Tall and Resinous:
•The height of eucalyptus trees allows flames to climb and spread through their canopies (creating “crown fires”). Their resinous properties further enhance the fire’s intensity.
5.Adaptation to Fire:
•Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, where bushfires are a natural part of the ecosystem. These trees have evolved to survive fires and even depend on them for reproduction. For example, heat from a fire can open their seed pods, allowing seeds to germinate.
6.Wind Dispersion of Flames:
•The oils released by burning eucalyptus can cause embers to travel long distances on the wind, helping the fire jump from tree to tree or even to new areas.

This combination of factors makes eucalyptus trees a significant fire hazard, particularly in areas prone to wildfires, like California.