Class
Classification
Subordinate Taxa
Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Nyctaginaceae
Description
Herbs, shrubs or trees, sometimes climbing, sometimes spiny. Lvs opposite or subopposite, occasionally alternate, simple, exstipulate, entire. Infl. usually cymose, sometimes appearing paniculate, rarely fls solitary, often surrounded by coloured bracts; fls ☿ or unisexual, actinomorphic. Calyx tubular, often petaloid, (3)–5–(8)-merous; lobes valvate or plicate in bud; basal part persistent; apical part caducous; bracts sometimes involucrate and simulating the calyx. Corolla 0. Stamens 1-many, free, or connate at base, hypogynous, often unequal. Ovary superior, 1-locular; ovule solitary, basal; style 1, slender; stigma simple or variously divided. Fr. an achene, sometimes enclosed by the persistent base of the calyx (an anthocarp), or a nut. Seed with little or copious endosperm.
[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]
Biostatus
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Indigenous (Non-endemic) | 1 |
| Exotic: Fully Naturalised | 2 |
| Total | 3 |
Bibliography
Cronquist, A. 1988: The evolution and classification of flowering plants. The New York Botanic Gardens, New York.
Mabberley, D.J. 2008: Mabberley's plant book, a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Edition 3. Cambridge University Press.
