Aizoaceae
Quick Summary
Aizoaceae, commonly known as the carpetweed or ice plant family, is a group of herbs and small shrubs belonging to the order Caryophyllales. These plants are often characterized by succulent leaves or stems, a trait that helps them thrive in arid and alkaline regions. Many species within Aizoaceae, such as those in the genus Mesembryanthemum, are native to southern Africa. Some are cultivated as ornamental ground covers, like the highway ice plant (Carpobrotus edulis), which is recognized by glistening swellings on its leaves. The family exhibits various photosynthetic pathways, including CAM photosynthesis, which is common in succulents.1234
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CaryophyllalesEconomic importanceAizoaceae includes ice plants, sea figs (also called beach apples), and living stones (lithops). Stem or leaf succulents in Cactaceae and Aizoaceae are commonly collected and used in rock gardens.
Read MoreAizoaceae includes ice plants, sea figs (also called beach apples), and living stones (lithops). Stem or leaf succulents in Cactaceae and Aizoaceae are commonly collected and used in rock gardens.
Read More- CaryophyllalesOther families
Members of Aizoaceae, the ice plant family, are leaf succulents with C4 and CAM photosynthesis. The flowers are typically in a cymose inflorescence, with the perianth of the flowers united with the stamens to form a tube. A well-developed nectary at the base of the tube encourages…
Read MoreMembers of Aizoaceae, the ice plant family, are leaf succulents with C4 and CAM photosynthesis. The flowers are typically in a cymose inflorescence, with the perianth of the flowers united with the stamens to form a tube. A well-developed nectary at the base of the tube encourages…
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