Aleurites

/ˌæljuːˈraɪtiːz/ noun

Definition

A genus of tropical trees that produce oils, including the tung tree which produces tung oil used in wood finishing and paint.

Etymology

From Greek 'aleuron' (flour) + '-ites,' referring to the starch-like appearance of parts of the plant; the genus name emphasizes the powdery seed coating.

Kelly Says

Aleurites moluccana produces tung oil, which dries incredibly fast—it's been used for centuries in Asia to create waterproof finishes that actually get harder when exposed to air!

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