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Panama rubbertree
Scientific Name: Castilla elastica
Family: Moraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Panama Rubber Tree (Castilla elastica)
The Panama Rubber Tree, scientifically known as Castilla elastica, is a significant tree species with a rich history and diverse uses.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant produces latex.
Considerations for Children
- This plant produces latex.
- Incisions are made in the bark of the tree to extract latex.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Castilla elastica
- Common Names: Panama Rubber Tree, Mexican Rubber Tree, Panama Rubber, Castilloa
- Family: Moraceae (Mulberry Family)
- Group: Dicot
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the tropical regions of Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
- Found from southern Mexico to Ecuador.
- Thrives in dry environments.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Deciduous to evergreen tree.
- Large, spreading crown.
- Typically grows to a height of 10-30 meters.
- Large foliage tree
Historical and Traditional Uses
- Historically, it was the principal source of latex for Mesoamerican peoples.
- The sap was once used to make rubber.
- Latex gathered was converted into usable rubber by mixing the latex with other materials.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Latex can be harvested by making shallow incisions in the bark.
Quirky Facts
- Other vernacular names for the plant include castilloa.
- The plant is also referred to as Palo de Hule and El Caucho.
- The plant is suitable as a bonsai or tropical container plant.
Further Information
- Symbol: CAEL5.
- USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.
- Ecocrop code: 644.