Anacardiacea

Sumac or Cashew family

Example
FORM Trees, shrubs or vines

Genera     75 and 600 species, Rhus and Toxicodendron  are the two genera that extend into our area.         

Species in our area     (Gray);     (B&B)43

 

Distribution Mainly tropical, extends into North America

Flowers

#Parts  5-merous                      Symmetry

Leaves often contain resinous compounds, in Toxicoderon urushoil which causes skin irritation. People with a high sensitivity may also react to cashews andmangos.69

The family contains several economically important species, gracing the finest of snack tables with cashews and pistachios. Mangos are also a member of this family. Lacquer is produced from the resins of some members.69