noun
- Plural of cassina; a type of holly shrub native to the southeastern United States, or a beverage made from its leaves.
Usage: Also called yaupon holly or cassina holly; Regional, primarily southeastern U.S.
Examples
- The cassinas grew wild along the coastal regions of the Carolinas.
- Native Americans brewed cassinas as a ceremonial drink long before European contact.
- Several cassinas were planted in the botanical garden to preserve the native species.
- The leaves of cassinas contain caffeine and were traditionally used to make tea.