Annonaceae

 

Genera : 130

Species: 2,300

Distribution: Tropical and subtropical, with the genus Asimina also in the Eastern US.

Economic Uses: Edible fruits 

 
  •   Links to Genus Directory of Images:
  • Links to Dendrology Genus Directory of Images:

 

Defining Features of Interest: Ethereal oil cells are interspersed in the parenchyma tissue.

Fossil Evidence: Pollen in the Oligocene and other parts in the Eocene.


Defining Morphology

Floral Features : Actinomorphic, perfect (rarely unisexual). Inflorescence a solitary flower or in cymes. Hpyogynous. Androecium filaments may appear pelatate shaped and anthers open by longitudinal slits. Gyneocium stigmas sessile.

Fruit and Seed Features : Dry or with fleshy, berry-like carpels or fleshy carpels fused to form an aggregate. Seeds small. Placentation parietal.

Vegetative Features : Habit is as shrubs, trees or lianas. Leaves are simple, entire and alternate. Stipules are lacking.