Sapotaceae
Sapotaceae
Sapotaceae (pronounced /səˌpoʊtəˈsiːiː/) is a family of flowering plants belonging to the order Ericales. The family includes about 800 species of evergreen trees and shrubs in approximately 65 genera (with a cosmopolitan distribution).
Etymology
The name "Sapotaceae" is derived from 'zapote', a word of Nahuatl origin, which refers to a soft, edible fruit. The term was later Latinized to 'sapota', and eventually became 'Sapotaceae'.
Description
Members of the Sapotaceae family are generally characterized by their glossy, leathery leaves and small, fragrant flowers. The fruits are typically fleshy and contain one or more seeds. Many species produce latex, a milky sap, which is often used in the production of chewing gum, hence the common name of the family, the "gum or sapodilla family".
Genera
Some of the notable genera in the Sapotaceae family include:
- Manilkara: Known for species such as the sapodilla (Manilkara zapota), which produces a fruit that is a major source of chewing gum.
- Pouteria: Includes the mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota), a fruit tree native to Mexico and Central America.
- Sideroxylon: Contains species like the bully tree or gum bully (Sideroxylon lanuginosum).
Economic Importance
Many species within the Sapotaceae family have economic importance due to their edible fruits, timber, and latex. The sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) is particularly significant as it is the primary source of chicle, a latex product used in the manufacture of chewing gum.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sapotaceae
- Wikipedia's article - Sapotaceae
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