Xylosma - The Fragrant Wood Genus of Sapindaceae Family

Xylosma is a genus of flowering plants in the family Sapindaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australia. The name "xylosma" comes from the Greek words "xylon," meaning "wood," and "osme," meaning "smell," referring to the fragrant wood of the trees.

Xylosma species are evergreen shrubs or small trees that grow up to 10-20 meters tall, with smooth, grayish-brown bark and glossy, dark green leaves. The flowers are small and white, yellow, or pink, and are produced in clusters. The fruit is a red, purple, or black berry that contains one or two seeds.

Xylosma is an important genus of plants in the Sapindaceae family, which also includes other genera such as Alectryon, Allophytum, and Chrysaspis. Xylosma species are valued for their timber, which is durable and resistant to insects and decay, and is used for furniture-making, construction, and other wood products. The leaves and twigs of Xylosma species are also used in traditional medicine in many parts of Asia and Australia.