Commelinaceae
Quick Summary
Commelinaceae is a large, widely distributed family of herbaceous plants, commonly known as the spiderwort family. This family is part of the order Commelinales, which includes over 800 species, mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions.12
Key characteristics of Commelinaceae include:
* Growth Habit: Primarily terrestrial herbs and climbers, with some epiphytes.2
* Ornamental Value: Many species are cultivated as garden or indoor ornamentals, such as those in the Tradescantia (spiderwort) and Commelina (dayflower) genera.2
* Flowers: They have perfect flowers with distinct calyx and corolla, and upper leaves shaped like a spathe.1
The family contains 652 species and is the largest within the Commelinales order.2
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