Class
Classification
Subordinate Taxa
Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Polygonaceae
Description
Herbs, shrubs, less commonly trees, erect or sometimes climbing. Stem nodes often swollen and jointed. Lvs usually alternate, simple. Stipules mostly forming a membranous or scarious ochrea (sheath). Infl. primarily racemose, spicate or paniculate, sometimes with secondary whorls or fascicles, usually many-flowered. Fls small, ☿ or unisexual, actinomorphic. Perianth 3–6-merous, in 1–2 whorls, often unequal, imbricate, free or connate, often persistent and accrescent. Corolla 0. Stamens (2)–6–9–(16); filaments free or united at base. Ovary superior, sessile, 1-locular, with a solitary, basal, erect ovule. Style 2–4-branched or styles free. Fr. a 3-angled, or 2-sided biconvex nut, often enclosed in persistent, commonly winged perianth. Seed with abundant mealy endosperm.
[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]
Biostatus
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Indigenous (Endemic) | 4 |
| Indigenous (Non-endemic) | 6 |
| Exotic: Fully Naturalised | 29 |
| Exotic: Casual | 10 |
| Total | 49 |
Bibliography
Connor, H.E. 1977: The Poisonous Plants in New Zealand. Edition 2. Government Printer, Wellington.
Connor, H.E.; Fountain, J. 2009: Plants that Poison: A New Zealand Guide. Manaaki Whenua Press, Lincoln.
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.
