Menispermaceae
Quick Summary
Menispermaceae is a family of herbaceous or woody climbing plants, often referred to as the moonseed family. These plants are characterized by small, three-parted, dioecious flowers and curved embryos. Species within this family, such as the Canada moonseed (Menispermum canadense), are found in East Asia, North America, and Mexico. The fruit of the Canada moonseed resembles grapes and contains crescent-shaped seeds. Importantly, the seeds of some Menispermaceae species can be poisonous, similar to curare, a substance derived from another member of this family.12
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