bumelia

noun

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.”

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

   “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.”