Rak (Calotropis gigantea). This tree is the araka of India. Its floers are strung into garlands to be worn around the necks of criminals on their way to the place of execution. In Thailand the rak tree grows wild in deserted dry palces. Its trunk and branches have a milky sap and its flowers are used for floral pieces which are to be seen usually at creamations. Now it is the fashion for a bride and bridegroom to wear a garland of these flowers, for the name rak means love in Thai.