Rutaceae

Rutaceae

The Rutaceae are a family, commonly known as the rue or citrus family, of flowering plants. The family is large, with worldwide distribution, and includes several well-known and economically important plants, including citrus fruit trees.

Description

The Rutaceae family is characterized by its aromatic members, which are often used in perfumery and as flavorings. The family includes trees, shrubs, and a few herbaceous plants. The leaves are usually opposite and compound, often with glandular dots, and the flowers are generally bisexual and radially symmetric.

Taxonomy

The Rutaceae family is classified in the order Sapindales, and includes about 160 genera and 1900 species. The family is divided into subfamilies, including the Rutoideae, Toddalioideae, Aurantioideae, and Flindersioideae.

Distribution and habitat

Rutaceae plants are found worldwide, but are most common in tropical and subtropical regions. They are often found in dry or rocky habitats, and many are adapted to fire-prone environments.

Uses

Many members of the Rutaceae family are economically important. The most well-known are the citrus fruit trees, including oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits. Other members are used as ornamental plants, and some have medicinal properties.

See also

• Citrus
• Ruta graveolens
• Zanthoxylum

References

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Rutaceae

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