Rhamnaceae
Quick Summary
The Rhamnaceae, also known as the buckthorn family, is a widely distributed plant family comprising thorny shrubs and trees. This family includes about 52 genera and over 900 species found globally, particularly in tropical and warm temperate regions.123
Key characteristics of Rhamnaceae include:
* Undivided, stipulate leaves.1
* Flowers with stamens positioned opposite the petals.1
* A superior ovary that develops into a capsule or drupe.1
* Adaptations for dry climates, such as small leaves and thorny branches.4
While many members are not large enough for lumber, the family provides valuable timber from species like Ziziphus jujuba (Chinese jujube) and Maesopsis eminii (African umbrella tree). Other products include cascara sagrada, a cathartic derived from the bark of Rhamnus purshiana, and the green dye lokao. Some Rhamnaceae species are important in chaparral ecosystems for erosion control, while others are used as ornamentals. However, some introduced species, like Rhamnus cathartica, have become invasive pests in North America.5
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