A little over a week has passed since my arrival at the Leonardo@Djerassi Residency. As I began unpacking my eucalyptus forest-like installation, a question that has long intrigued me, even before departing from Australia, continues to resonate in my mind: why and how has the Australian Blue Gum (Eucalyptus Globulus) become so prevalent in California's landscape? Despite its non-native status, this tree species has deeply ingrained itself within the fabric of both California's culture and its physical environment, while also being associated with the ferocity of the state's bushfires. Interestingly, most Californians hold a strong dislike towards these trees, but the knowledge of their origin and the reasons behind their prevalence in California remains a mystery.

In this journey, we will embark on a quest to uncover the captivating story behind the Australian Blue Gum Eucalyptus in California. We will explore the factors that have contributed to its prevalence, its cultural significance, and the role it plays in the intensity of bushfires.