Croton and coffee beans: Same origin or different?

introduction

Croton and coffee beans are both perfect products and foods that we often come into contact with in our daily lives. They are very different in appearance, taste and use. However, croton and coffee beans have similar origins in botany. This article will explore the relationship between croton and coffee beans from a botanical perspective.

Origin and classification

Croton (Ricinus communis) is a perennial herb in the Euphorbiaceae family, native to tropical Africa, while coffee trees (Coffea spp.) belong to the Rubiaceae family, native to the highlands of eastern Africa.

Although they belong to different families, they are both true flowering plants in the phylum Angiosperms, class Dicots, and subclass Fungi, which means they have a common ancestor and have developed their own unique characteristics during evolution.

Comparison of morphological features

In appearance, there are obvious differences between croton and coffee tree. Croton is a tall shrub or small tree, usually up to 3-10 meters tall. Its leaves are palmately compound leaves, composed of 5-11 oblong leaflets. Coffee tree is a medium-sized tree, usually up to 6-15 meters tall. Its leaves are arranged in pairs, and the single leaves are ovate to elliptical.

There are also differences in flowers and fruits. Croton flowers are inconspicuous, yellow-green, and hermaphroditic, while coffee flowers are bright and beautiful, white or light pink, and divided into two parts: stamens and stigmas.

Comparison of chemical composition

Despite their apparent differences, croton and coffee beans have some similarities in their chemical composition. Both contain a variety of active substances that have a wide range of applications in medicine, food and industry.

First, let's compare the oil composition: croton seeds contain about 40% oil, which plays an important role in the production of biodiesel and lubricants; while coffee beans contain about 15-20% oil, which is often used to make food seasonings.

The second is the comparison of alkaline ingredients: croton contains a strong toxin called ricin, which is highly lethal; while coffee beans are rich in caffeine, a natural stimulant that has a significant effect in refreshing the mind.

Economic value and application

Croton and coffee trees are both economically important. The main economic product of croton is its kernel, which can be used to extract sustainable biodiesel, and can also be used to make medicines and cosmetics. In addition, croton fiber can also be used in the textile industry.

The main economic product of the coffee tree is its fruit, which is known as "coffee beans". The global demand for coffee beverages continues to grow, leading to the rapid development of the relevant industrial chain. In addition to the food industry, coffee beans can also be used to extract caffeine for the production of medicines and beverages.

in conclusion

In summary, although there are obvious differences between croton and coffee beans in appearance, taste and use, they have similar botanical origins. Both belong to true flowering plants under the class Dicotyledons of the angiosperms and have a common ancestor. Although there are some similarities between croton and coffee beans, we should still pay attention to the differences between them and use them correctly to avoid adverse consequences.

Through comparative studies of croton and coffee beans, we can better understand the rich and diverse properties behind these two foods and their impact on the development of human society.