Gum tree is the name of many trees that produce gum or a gumlike substance. One type, the sapodilla, produces a gummy latex called chicle, formerly an ingredient in chewing gum. This rain forest tree grows in Central America and is widely cultivated. The sapodilla must grow for more than 20 years before it can be tapped. Its long, clustered leaves have pointed ends. The tree also produces small flowers and delicious fruit. Many other tropical trees produce gums, some of which are edible.
Several kinds of North American trees are also called gum trees. These kinds of trees include American sweet gum and tupelo. In addition, some Australian eucalyptus trees are known as gum trees.
