Simaroubaceae
Genera : 20-25 Species 120-150	Links to genus directories: Ailanthus altissima Links to dendrology genus directories: Ailanthus altissima

Distribution: Pantropical with some species either more temperate or subtropical in distribution.

Economic Uses: As a cultivated ornamental and as the source of New World antimalarial medicines from the bitter bark. Some species have the flavor of licorice.

Defining Features of Interest: Bitterness is a common feature of the bark, seeds and wood. The leaves are distinctive from the Rutaceae in not having resin glands. Other features are in common with this closely related f

Fossil Evidence: No known fossil reord.