Ericaceae

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Ericaceae

Ericaceae (pronounced /ˌɛrɪˈkeɪsiː/), also known as the heath or heather family, is a large family of flowering plants, commonly found in acidic and infertile growing conditions. The family is large, with c. 4250 known species spread across 124 genera, making it the 14th most speciose family of flowering plants.

Etymology

The name Ericaceae is derived from the type genus Erica, which appears to have been named after the Old Norse word for "heather".

Description

Members of the Ericaceae family are usually shrubs, and less commonly trees or herbaceous plants. They are often calcifuge, preferring acidic soils, and are commonly found in heathland, bog and acidic woodland habitats. The leaves are usually alternate and simple, and the flowers are typically bell-shaped and bisexual.

Genera

The family includes a number of well-known and widely cultivated genera, such as Rhododendron, Pieris, Arbutus, Vaccinium (which includes cranberries and blueberries), and Erica (heaths and heathers).

Related Terms

  • Heathland - a habitat in which Ericaceae are typically dominant
  • Bog - a wetland type where many Ericaceae species are found
  • Acidic soil - the preferred soil type for many Ericaceae
  • Calcifuge - plants that prefer acidic soils, like many Ericaceae

External links

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