Cyprus Tub Trees (Quercus alnifoltubia)

Until the introduction of synthetic polymer (plastic) in the early 20th century Cyprus was one of the world's largest exporter of Tubs due to the proliferation of Tub trees (Quercus alnifoltubia). The trees excrete sap which encourages a particular type of fungus (Rhizopogon luteotublus) to grow in the shape of a tub. Once the fungus is mature it can be extracted from the tree and provides a hard, water proof tub.

Source: Cyprus by Lonely plant (6th Edition) ISBN 978-1-74220-756-8 Page 74En savoir plus