Malvales facts for kids
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Malvales
Dumort., 1829
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Malvales is a group of flowering plants. In biology, a group like this is called an "order." This order includes about 6,000 different species of plants, which are organized into nine main families.
Scientists place the Malvales order within a larger group called the eurosids II, which are part of the eudicots. Eudicots are a very large group of flowering plants that have two seed leaves (cotyledons) when they first sprout.
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What are Malvales?
The Malvales order is a diverse group of plants. It includes many well-known trees, shrubs, and herbs. These plants are found all over the world, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.
Many plants in the Malvales order share some common features. For example, they often have leaves that are shaped like a hand (palmate) or have distinct veins. Their flowers can also have a unique structure, often with many stamens (the parts that produce pollen) that are joined together.
Families in the Malvales Order
The Malvales order is made up of nine main families. Some of the most important and well-known families include:
- Malvaceae: This is the largest family in the Malvales order. It includes many famous plants like cotton, hibiscus, okra, and cacao (from which chocolate is made). Many plants in this family have showy flowers.
- Thymelaeaceae: This family includes shrubs and small trees. They are often found in dry or rocky areas. Some plants in this family are known for their strong fibers, which can be used to make paper.
- Bixaceae: This small family includes the annatto tree. Annatto seeds are used to make a natural food coloring and spice.
- Cistaceae: These are often called "rock-roses." They are usually shrubs found in dry, sunny places, especially around the Mediterranean Sea.
- Sarcolaenaceae: This family is unique because all its species are found only on the island of Madagascar. They are mostly trees and shrubs.
- Dipterocarpaceae: This family is very important in tropical rainforests, especially in Asia. Many of its trees are large and valuable for their timber. They are also known for their winged fruits.
Where Malvales Plants Grow
Malvales plants are found in many different parts of the world. They are most common in warm, tropical, and subtropical areas. For example:
- Many species from the Malvaceae family, like hibiscus and cotton, thrive in warm climates. Cotton is grown in many countries for its fibers.
- The cacao tree, which gives us chocolate, grows in the humid rainforests near the equator.
- Some families, like Cistaceae, are well-adapted to dry, rocky soils in places like the Mediterranean region.
- The large timber trees of the Dipterocarpaceae family are a key part of the rainforests in Southeast Asia.
These plants can grow in various habitats, from forests to grasslands and even deserts. Their ability to adapt helps them survive in different environments.
Uses and Importance of Malvales
Plants from the Malvales order are very important to humans and ecosystems.
- Food: We get many foods from Malvales plants. Cacao beans are used to make chocolate. Okra is a popular vegetable in many cuisines.
- Fibers: Cotton, from the Malvaceae family, is one of the most important natural fibers used worldwide for clothing and textiles.
- Timber: Many trees in the Dipterocarpaceae family are valuable sources of wood for construction and furniture.
- Medicine: Some plants in this order have been used in traditional medicine for their healing properties.
- Ornamental Plants: Many species, especially hibiscus and hollyhocks, are grown in gardens for their beautiful flowers.
These plants also play a vital role in their natural environments. They provide food and shelter for animals, help prevent soil erosion, and contribute to the overall health of ecosystems.
Images for kids
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Hibiscus moscheutos
See also
In Spanish: Malvales para niños
