Calls from some land owners to permit the growing of eucalyptus trees for renewables have been turned down by the Scottish Government.

Aberdeenshire farmer Alistair Sinclair had challenged the Scottish Government at a recent NFU Scotland meeting to think again on its growing ban.

The Udny farmer argued that non-native species like Sitka spruce were permitted and formed a big part of the tree stock in Scotland, so a similar rule should apply to eucalyptus.

Fast growth

The Australian native tree is known for its fast growth and is popular for making biofuels, which has prompted some to call for the ban on the commercial growing to be repealed in Scotland.

Anybody considering planting a non-native tree or shrub not on the exempt list must obtain a license

However, a Scottish Government spokesperson said: “In Scotland, it is an offence to plant non-native trees, shrubs or plants, or to release non-native animals.

"Some species, including those commonly used in Scottish forestry, are exempt, although must still be managed according to the UK Forestry Standard.

"Anybody considering planting a non-native tree or shrub not on the exempt list must obtain a license from Scottish Natural Heritage beforehand.

"We would also recommend that anybody considering planting a new woodland should contact Scottish Forestry for advice.”