Class
Classification
Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Onagraceae
Description
Herbs, less commonly shrubs, occasionally trees or lianes. Lvs alternate, opposite or whorled, usually simple, usually exstipulate, sometimes with caducous stipules. Fls usually ☿, actinomorphic or somewhat zygomorphic, solitary or in spikes, racemes or panicles. Axis adnate to ovary and mostly produced beyond it as the floral tube. Calyx lobes (2)–4–(5), valvate. Petals (0)–2–4–(5), free, convolute or imbricate, often clawed. Stamens usually 8 or 4, sometimes 1–2; anthers 2-locular; pollen grains connected by fine, viscid threads. Ovary usually inferior, rarely semi-superior, 2–4–(6)-celled. Ovules 1-numerous; placentation axile; style 1; stigmas 1–4. Fr. generally a capsule, sometimes a berry or dry and nut-like. Seeds nearly always numerous, non-endospermic; embryo straight.
[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]
Biostatus
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Indigenous (Endemic) | 35 |
| Indigenous (Non-endemic) | 7 |
| Exotic: Fully Naturalised | 19 |
| Exotic: Casual | 11 |
| Total | 72 |
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.
