Teachers  Plant a Tree  Everyone knows paper and wood come from trees, but there are other products we use every day that originate in our forests. For example: VapoRub®, and other similar products, contain oil form the leaves and/or wood of camphor tree (Cinnamomum comphora). Although this tree is native to eastern Asia, it has established itself in Florida and grows in our region. Bay Leaves, used as a spice, come from the laurel tree (laurus nobilis), which originates in the Mediterranean. Cough drops often include oils from eucalyptus trees native to Australia and New Zealand. Cloves are actually dried flower buds of the Eugenia Stopper (Eugenia aromatica) tree, native to the Spice Islands of Indonesia. Chocolate is made from the seeds of the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao), native to tropical Africa and South America. Cork is derived from the bark of the cork oak tree, and natural rubber comes from the sappy latex rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis), found in Brazil, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, India and China. Rayon is a purified cellulose product, derived from the primary component of wood fiber. Cellulosegum is used to make toothpaste and gum base (from the sapodilla tree) also used in the manufacture of chewing gum. Pine Sol® gets its name, smell and cleansing capabilities from the resin of pine trees. And several other food, cosmetics and cleaning materials are produced using tree by-products.   Despite our reliance on trees, there are ways in which we hurt them: Pollution and litter Deforestation Failing to recycle But students should know there are also ways in which we can help trees and the environment: Recycle!    Plant (native plants and trees) No littering    Be a responsible energy-user Chose environment safe fertilizers Activity – Landscape Projects with Trees on Your School Campus Tree Planting Essentials – Plant the Right Tree in the Right Space!  Use our Tree Portfolio and make smart tree choices. You can do so by first determining: The space has to accommodate the tree’s ultimate height and width? The space has to accommodate the tree’s root structure? Does your tree need salt and drought tolerance? Can you give your tree the care and maintenance it requires? Does your tree have special features, like animal-attracting fruit or does it shed leaf or cone litter?