Eucalyptus trees are one of the most familiar sights on the Israeli landscape. This tree was originally brought to Israel from Australia to help dry out swamps, which were breeding grounds for malaria-spreading mosquitoes. However, their contribution to the landscape and to KKL-JNF forests is far more extensive. There are approximately 700 species of eucalypti in the world, some of them that grow to a height of 60 meters. Eucalyptus trees are often chosen by KKL-JNF foresters because they grow rapidly, thrive in various types of soil, are very advantageous for bee keepers, produce lumber and ethereal oils, and more.
Eucalyptus gomphocephala Kaduri KKL is a very unique hybrid named for KKL-JNF, since it was propagated from cuttings of eucalyptus gomphocephala that grew into bush-like trees only 1.5 meters tall in Shuvalim Forest. Due to their breadth, they are popular in public and private gardens, and they are very economical in terms of water usage. They are also good for nursery schools, since small children can play in their shade. In fact, Australian tree growers have expressed an interest in this hybrid, so some of them might find their way back to their country of origin!