Meliaceae

Meliaceae

A family of mostly tropical trees and shrubs of the order Rutales (synonym Sapindales), characterised by alternate, usually pinnate leaves without stipules and by syncarpous, usually bisexual flowers borne in panicles, cymes, spikes, or clusters.

Distribution: Pantropically

Uses: oil, soap-making, insecticides, highly prized wood (mahogany)

Some economically important species belong to this family: