Mer-ta'se-e. L. Myrt-us + aceae, Gr.

myrtle, fr.

perfume - i. e., characteristic of some species. Trees, shrubs; distinguished by aromatic, pungent properties (vol. oil); stamens 8-10 +; leaves exstipulate, opposite, dotted with marginal vein; calyx and petals 4-5; ovary inferior, 1-6-celled; fruit dry or succulent; seeds exalbuminous; temperate climates, tropics; aromatic, stimulant, carminative (vol. oil), diaphoretic, antispasmodic, astringent, spices, perfumery, edible fruit; timber.

Genera: 1. Melaleuca (Cajuputi). 2. Eugenia. 3. Pimenta (Myrcia). 4. Eucalyptus.