I think it is absurd, that with today’s knowledge and awareness, we are being asked to support a group whose goal it is to preserve and protect the Australian Pine in a Florida State Park, of all places. This exotic tree is very invasive, and is displacing native species. It is allelopathic, which means it chemically alters the ground surrounding it in such a way as to inhibit the growth of other species of plants. It topples over easily in strong winds. Think of it as the lion fish of the tree family. Just like the split leaf philodendron, it might be pretty to look at, but it is overwhelming our ecosystem. Conservationists and preservationists should be working with the state officials to remove those things from our public spaces.
I do understand the reasons for planting and encouraging their growth years ago, but those reasons are no longer valid in today’s sensitive Keys environment.
I think it is absurd, that with today’s knowledge and awareness, we are being asked to support a group whose goal it is to preserve and protect the Australian Pine in a Florida State Park, of all places. This exotic tree is very invasive, and is displacing native species. It is allelopathic, which means it chemically alters the ground surrounding it in such a way as to inhibit the growth of other species of plants. It topples over easily in strong winds. Think of it as the lion fish of the tree family. Just like the split leaf philodendron, it might be pretty to look at, but it is overwhelming our ecosystem. Conservationists and preservationists should be working with the state officials to remove those things from our public spaces.
I do understand the reasons for planting and encouraging their growth years ago, but those reasons are no longer valid in today’s sensitive Keys environment.