Crossword Genius

Fragrant extract of rubber trees (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ester

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'fragrant extract' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both substances as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'rubber trees' is the wordplay.
'trees' anagrams to 'ESTER'.
But, I am unsure how the anagram is indicated.

'of' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ester that I've seen before include "Organic chemical compound" , "Compound; trees (anag.)" , "Reset (anag.)" , "Organic compound, rhymes with court joker" , "Chemical compound of acid and alcohol, found in trees" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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