Small-leaf privet (L. sinense) and broadleaf privet (L. lucidum) were introduced to Australia from Asia, and are now causing widespread problems as an invasive species on the New South Wales north and central coast. They typically infest disturbed (human modified) habitats, as well as native bushland and gardens. Many areas in New South Wales receive more water today, through irrigation for farming and urban land use, than naturally occurred before Europeans settled the region. Privet root systems have a remarkable ability to absorb nutrients and moisture from the soil, which makes it difficult to replant other species in the area after extracting the privets. Also, the pollen produced from this species is causing allergic reactions in many people.