Florida planted Australian pine for shade, windbreaks, and storm protection; by 1993, the fast-growing tree had invaded more than 372,000 acres

Australian pines were brought to Florida in the 1800s as a means of protecting against storms and enhancing landscapes. By 1993, however, these trees had taken over more…

Australian pines were brought to Florida in the 1800s as a means of protecting against storms and enhancing landscapes. By 1993, however, these trees had taken over more than 372,000 acres, leading to harmful impacts on local ecosystems through monocultures. A study following Hurricane Andrew revealed that merely 4% of these trees withstood the severe winds, exposing their shallow root problems.