noun
- Plural of candlewood; trees or shrubs of the genus Fouquieria, native to southwestern North America, having resinous wood that burns brightly and was historically used for torches or candles.
Usage: chiefly botanical or regional; also called ocotillo or desert candle
Examples
- The candlewoods of the Sonoran Desert are adapted to arid conditions.
- Native peoples used candlewoods as a source of light before modern candles were available.
- Several candlewoods grew along the rocky hillside.
- The resinous candlewoods burn with a bright flame when dried.