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Which Sapindaceae genera are large woody vines in the American tropics?
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Sapindales
Tangerine (Citrus reticulata deliciosa)
Within the Sapindaceae family, the genera Serjania and Paullinia are notable examples of large woody vines, or lianas, found in the American tropics.1
- Serjania: This is the largest genus in the family, comprising approximately 230 species. Its range extends from the southern United States to tropical South America, with a primary center of diversity located in southeastern Brazil.1
- Paullinia: This genus includes about 220 species distributed throughout the American tropics and subtropics. It is well known for Paullinia cupana (guarana), a vine whose seeds are used to produce a caffeinated beverage.1
Both genera are characterized by their climbing habit and are sometimes utilized by indigenous peoples for their chemical properties, such as in the preparation of substances used to stun fish in streams.1