Fire experts emphasize the need to replace highly flammable trees like Mexican fan palms and eucalyptus with fire-resistant species such as oak, sycamore, and toyon, while also strengthening home fire defenses to reduce wildfire risks in California.

In the wake of devastating wildfires across Southern California, the conversation around fire-resistant landscaping has intensified. While trees provide beauty, shade, and ecological benefits, experts caution that certain species — particularly Mexican fan palms, Italian cypress, and eucalyptus — act as dangerous fire accelerants, spreading embers and intensifying destruction. Ecological horticulturalists and fire scientists emphasize that the solution is not to remove all vegetation but to choose species strategically, with an emphasis on moisture-rich, fire-resistant trees like California live oak, sycamore, and toyon, which can help intercept embers and slow fire spread.
As reported by Steve Lopez, researcher Alexandra Syphard and other fire ecology experts stress that hardened structures, not vegetation alone, determine a home’s ability to withstand fire. Many homes are ignited from within due to embers entering through vents, shattered windows, and open garage doors. Double-pane windows, fine-mesh vent screens, and proper brush management—rather than excessive clearing—can make a significant difference in fire resilience. Even in the aftermath of destructive blazes, certain plants have demonstrated remarkable resilience, such as California lilac, which survived while structures around it burned.
Experts recommend replacing highly flammable trees with fire-resistant alternatives such as oak, sycamore, toyon, lemonade berry, and lilac. Landscape architect Kay Stewart suggests succulents and cactus as additional safeguards, while biologist Cristhian Mace underscores the importance of smart planning, maintaining defensible space, and integrating non-combustible building materials. While the idea of removing iconic palm trees may be met with resistance, fire safety advocates argue that proactive changes in landscaping are necessary to adapt to the increasing wildfire risks in California.
FULL STORY: Column: Slow the spread of fire? ‘We have to get rid of the palm trees’

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Driving Equity and Clean Air: California Invests in Greener School Transportation
California has awarded $500 million to fund 1,000 zero-emission school buses and chargers for educational agencies as part of its effort to reduce pollution, improve student health, and accelerate the transition to clean transportation.

Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.

From Throughway to Public Space: Taking Back the American Street
How the Covid-19 pandemic taught us new ways to reclaim city streets from cars.
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