Apiaceae
Apiaceae (pronounced: /ˌeɪpiˈeɪsiː/), also known as the Umbelliferae, is a large family of mostly aromatic flowering plants named after the type genus Apium. The family, which is also known as the celery, carrot or parsley family, is widely distributed around the world and includes some 3700 species spread across 434 genera.
Etymology
The name "Apiaceae" comes from Apium, a genus in the family, which in turn is derived from the Latin apis, meaning "bee". The alternative name, "Umbelliferae", is derived from the inflorescence being generally in the form of a compound "umbel", and has been used as a synonym for the family in the past.
Description
Apiaceae are typically aromatic plants with hollow stems, alternate, feather-like leaves, and flowers arranged in an umbel. The flowers are usually small and white or greenish, and the fruits are characteristic schizocarps, which are dry fruits that split into two at maturity.
Genera
Some of the most well-known genera in the Apiaceae family include Anethum (dill), Apium (celery, celeriac), Carum (caraway), Coriandrum (coriander/cilantro), Cuminum (cumin), Daucus (carrot), Foeniculum (fennel), Petroselinum (parsley), and Pimpinella (anise).
Uses
Many members of the Apiaceae family are of great economic importance as food crops, spices, and medicinal plants. For example, Daucus carota (carrot) is a widely consumed vegetable, Coriandrum sativum (coriander/cilantro) is a popular herb and spice, and Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) is used both as a food plant and a medicinal herb.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Apiaceae
- Wikipedia's article - Apiaceae
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