Spindle-tree family
Description
A family of shrubs and trees with simple and opposite or alternate leaves, often leathery (Celastraceae 1). The flowers are borne in a reduced raceme-like axillary inflorescence. Flowers are small, regular, with 3-5 sepals and petals, the same number of stamens alternating with the petals, and a superior ovary. The fruits take various forms, the seeds often with a vivid aril.
There are over 50 genera, with a cosmopolitan distribution.
Use
The buds and leaves of Catha contain an alkaloid and are chewed as khat in Northeast Africa and Arabia.
Described species
Catha edulis, khat