Celastraceae

/səˌlæstrəˈeɪsiː/ noun

Definition

The botanical family of plants that includes bittersweet, spindle trees, and winterberry—mostly woody shrubs and small trees.

Etymology

Derived from the genus name 'Celastrus,' which comes from Greek 'kelastron,' an ancient name for a type of tree.

Kelly Says

Many celastraceae plants have brilliantly colored berries and capsules that look like little jewels—they're nature's way of advertising to birds 'eat me and spread my seeds!'

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