Polemoniaceae

  
 

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Genera : 18

Species: 300

Distribution: Mainly N.A. but also Chile, Peru, Europe and N. Asia

 

Economic Uses: Ornamentals

Defining Features of Interest: Seed-coat often sticky when wetted

Fossil Evidence:

Defining Morphology

Floral Features : Flowers bisexual and usually actinomorphic. Inflorescences axillary or terminal, solitary or in small cymose clusters of dense heads. K and C 5 lobed and fused, A epipetalous and alternate with corolla lobes. G superior with an annular nectary disk usually around G. Axile placentation.

Fruit and Seed Features : Fruit a capsule. Seeds with straight or slightly curved embryo and copious, oily endosperm.

Vegetative Features : Perennial/annual herbs, shrubs, lianas or small trees. Leaves spiral or opposite, simple or pinnately compound; no stipules.