'balsamiferous' originates from New Latin/Latin, specifically from Latin 'balsamum' (from Greek 'balsamon' ultimately from a Semitic source) meaning 'balsam' and the Latin-derived suffix '-ferous' (from 'ferre') meaning 'bearing'.

'balsamiferous' formed in scientific/modern English from New Latin compounds (compare Medieval/Scientific Latin formations using '-ferous'), with 'balsamum' entering English via Old French/Middle English as 'balsam' and combined with the Latin-derived suffix to form 'balsamiferous' in English usage.

Initially it denoted 'bearing or producing balsam' in technical/botanical contexts, and this meaning has largely been retained in modern usage as 'containing or giving off balsam-like resin or scent'.