bumelia

plural bumelias

1. Any shrub or tree of genus Sideroxylon (formerly Bumelia).

   This species and the bumelias are the only thorny plants with milky sap. Small specimens differ from bumelias in having false end buds and in leaf shape.

   1972, George A. Petrides, A Field Guide to Trees and Shrubs, page 192

   2 more examples

   The bumelias are shrubs or small trees with alternate, simple, evergreen or deciduous leaves; with the leaves commonly in clusters on short lateral spurs.

   1983, The Illustrated Book of Trees, page 387

   Bumelia supplies some cover value to wildlife, since its limb configuration is suitable for songbird nest placement; its occasional thorns may offer some protection from predators.

   2010, Sally S. Weeks, Harmon P. Weeks (Jr.), George R. Parker, Native Trees of the Midwest, page 108