Class
Classification
Subordinate Taxa
Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Melastomataceae
Description
Herbs, shrubs or trees, occasionally climbers. Lvs simple, usually opposite and decussate, rarely whorled, characteristically with 3–7 strong longitudinal veins and horizontal transverse veins between; stipules 0. Infl. of various forms of cyme, sometimes fls solitary. Fls ☿, with perianth (but not stamens and style) actinomorphic, often large and conspicuous, with an urn-shaped calyx tube (hypanthium) bearing sepals, petals and stamens. Calyx free or adnate to ovary; lobes usually 4–5, usually imbricate, rarely valvate. Petals usually 4–5, imbricate, usually free, rarely united at base. Stamens usually twice, sometimes as many as petals, equal or unequal; filaments free, often geniculate and inflexed; anthers basifixed, usually opening by a single pore; connective thickened, often with basal elongated appendages. Ovary usually inferior, (1)–4–5-(many)-locular. Ovules numerous; placentae usually axile, rarely basal or parietal; style and stigma 1. Fr. a berry or capsule. Seeds numerous, usually minute, non-endospermic.
[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]
Biostatus
Exotic
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Exotic: Fully Naturalised | 1 |
| Exotic: Casual | 3 |
| Total | 4 |
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.
Mabberley, D.J. 2017: Mabberley's plant book, a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Edition 4. Cambridge University Press.
