Araliaceae facts for kids
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Araliaceae
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The Araliaceae are a family of flowering plants. They are also known as the Aralia family or the ivy family. This plant family includes many different types of plants. You can find trees, shrubs, climbing plants called lianas, and herbaceous plants. Herbaceous plants have soft stems, not woody ones.
There are about 254 different species in this family. They are grouped into two main subfamilies. Most plants in this family have leaves that are divided into smaller leaflets. These leaves can look like feathers (pinnately compound) or like a hand (palmately compound). Their flowers are usually small. They often grow in large clusters called panicles.
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What are Araliaceae Plants Like?
Araliaceae plants are very diverse. This means they come in many shapes and sizes. You can find them all over the world. They grow in different climates, from warm tropical areas to cooler regions.
Where Do They Grow?
Many Araliaceae plants grow in tropical and subtropical areas. You can find them in places like Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Some species also grow in temperate zones. This includes parts of North America and Europe. They often prefer moist, shady places.
Common Features of Aralia Plants
Most plants in the Araliaceae family share some features.
- Leaves: Their leaves are often large and divided. They can be palmate, like a hand, or pinnate, like a feather.
- Flowers: The flowers are usually small. They often grow in umbrella-shaped clusters. These clusters are called umbels.
- Fruits: The fruits are typically small berries or drupes. A drupe is a fleshy fruit with a hard pit inside. Think of a cherry or an olive.
- Stems: Some are trees with strong woody stems. Others are vines that climb. Some are small plants with soft stems.
Famous Plants in the Aralia Family
Many plants from the Araliaceae family are well-known. Some are used for medicine. Others are popular as garden or house plants.
Ginseng: A Special Root
One of the most famous plants is Ginseng. It belongs to the genus Panax. Ginseng roots have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. People believe it helps with energy and health. There are different types, like Asian Ginseng and American Ginseng.
Ivy: A Climbing Plant
Ivy is another very common Araliaceae plant. The most famous is Hedera helix, or common ivy. It's known for its ability to climb walls and trees. Ivy has beautiful evergreen leaves. It's often used as a ground cover or for decoration.
Schefflera: Popular Houseplants
Schefflera plants are very popular. They are often grown indoors as houseplants. They are sometimes called umbrella trees. This is because their leaves spread out like an umbrella. They are easy to care for and look great in homes.
Fatsia: Big, Bold Leaves
Fatsia is a genus known for its large, shiny leaves. Fatsia japonica is a common garden plant. It adds a tropical feel to gardens. It can grow quite large and has interesting flowers.
Why are Araliaceae Important?
Araliaceae plants are important for several reasons.
- Ecology: They provide food and shelter for wildlife. Their flowers attract pollinators like bees.
- Medicine: Many species, like Ginseng, are used in traditional medicine. Scientists are still studying their health benefits.
- Horticulture: Many are grown for their beauty. They are popular in gardens, parks, and homes. They help make our surroundings green and beautiful.
Images for kids
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Schefflera arboricola
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Oplopanax horridus
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Eleutherococcus sieboldianus
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Osmoxylon lineare
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Hydrocotyle vulgaris
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Hedera helix
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Aralia spinosa
See also
In Spanish: Araliáceas para niños
