Scientific Name: Castilla elastica. Common name: Central American Rubber Tree. Native to Belize and other parts of Central America, it is a fast growing tree with large tropical-looking leaves. Used traditionally as a shading overstory "mother plant" for the economically important cacao crop, it can also be used as a landscape item in tropical regions. Easy to grow from seeds. In its native habitat, this tree also supports a variety of tropical forest wildlife (Parrots, agouti, collared peccaries, spider monkeys, coatis and numerous small frugivorous birds eat its fruit). Lianas, orchids and bromeliads are supported by its branches. In addition, C. elastica has been used for beekeeping, arts and crafts, industrial, medicinal and ornamental purposes. This tree is one of the 3 species that have been used extensively for commercial rubber production. The other two are Hevea brasiliensis of the Euphorbiaceae family and Ficus elastica.
This item is a special collector's packet of one hundred (100) Castilla elastica seeds, to be delivered upon receipt of payment. Note that the buyer pays $4.95 postage & handling.
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