Balsam tree

Definition

= tree of 2-3 meters tall, with small, wrinkled, three-part leaves, white flowers, and pea-sized red berries that have a fragrant yellow seed inside; the bark of younger branches is gray, turning brown with age; it grows in desert or semi-desert climates; ◄ Opobalsamum; ► the tree is wanted for its resin, which appears by itself in green droplets from the stems and branches, but collectors also make cuts in the branches to speed the process; the droplets turn from green to brown, clump together, and fall to the ground, where they are collected; the resin is used in holy anointing oil, as medicine, and as an ingredient of perfume