1. A tropical American tree or shrub of the genus Bursera, known for its aromatic resin used in incense and traditional medicine.
Usage: botanical term; also called copal tree or elephant tree depending on species

Examples

• The bursera tree produces a fragrant resin that has been used in religious ceremonies for centuries.
• Bursera species are native to Mexico and Central America.
• The aromatic gum from the bursera is harvested and burned as incense.
• Botanists study bursera trees to understand tropical forest ecology.