Celastraceae

Celastrus, from kelastros, an ancient Greek name. Trees or shrubs sometimes climbing, coloured sap maybe present; outer surface of the live bark often bright yellow or orange. Leaves alternate sometimes opposite, simple. Flowers small 4-5- merous with a distinct calyx and corolla, stamens inserted on the margin of a broad disc; ovary partially immersed in disc, 2-5-locular. Fruit various.