| MadSci Network: Botany |
Rubber plant (Ficus elastica) exudes a milky sap or latex when the leaves or stems are cut, hence the name. Ficus elastica sap does make rubber but almost all commercial rubber is obtained from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). According to the third website in the references there are about 18,000 plant species that produce latex. Money plant (Lunaria annua) has circular fruits that are coin-shaped, hence the name. Lunaria comes from the term "luna", which means moon. It refers to the circular fruits. Its dried stems are often used in flower arrangements. Google.com lists many websites on both plants. References Rubber plant (Ficus elastica) Rubber plant in Encyclopedia Brittanica The Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis) Money Plant (Lunaria annua) photo in bloom Money Plant (Lunaria annua) photo of dried fruit
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