Verbenaceae facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Verbena family |
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Verbenaceae
Jaume Saint-Hilaire
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The Verbena family (scientific name: Verbenaceae) is a group of plants that includes many different types of trees, shrubs, and smaller plants called herbs. These plants are part of a larger group called Lamiales, which also includes mints and olives.
You can find plants from the Verbena family all over the world, especially in warmer, tropical areas. Many of them are known for their beautiful flowers and are often grown in gardens.
Contents
What are Verbenaceae?
The Verbenaceae family is made up of plants that can be either woody (like trees and shrubs) or herbaceous (like smaller, non-woody plants). They are dicotyledons, which means their seeds have two first leaves when they sprout.
These plants often have leaves that grow opposite each other on the stem, or sometimes in a circle around the stem. Their flowers can be regular (symmetrical) or irregular (not symmetrical). Most of these flowers have four or two working stamens, which are the parts that produce pollen.
Where Do Verbena Plants Grow?
Plants in the Verbena family are found in many different parts of the world. They especially like warm climates. You can see them growing naturally in tropical and subtropical regions. Some species also grow in temperate zones, which have milder weather.
They can adapt to various environments. Some grow in forests, others in open fields, and some even in coastal areas. This wide range of habitats shows how diverse and adaptable this plant family is.
Amazing Flowers and Leaves
One of the most noticeable things about Verbenaceae plants is their flowers. They come in many colors, like purple, pink, white, and yellow. The flowers often grow in clusters, making them very showy and attractive to insects like bees and butterflies. These insects help the plants reproduce by carrying pollen.
The leaves of these plants also vary a lot. They can be smooth or hairy, and their edges might be smooth, toothed, or lobed. The way the leaves are arranged on the stem (opposite or whorled) is a key feature that helps scientists identify them.
Uses of Verbena Plants
Many plants from the Verbena family are very popular in gardens. People love to grow them because of their beautiful and colorful flowers. For example, Lantana and Verbena species are common ornamental plants. They add a lot of beauty to parks and home gardens.
Some plants in this family have also been used in traditional medicine. People have used them for different purposes, though it's important to remember that modern medicine relies on scientific testing. Certain species are also used to make essential oils or are grown for their timber.
Examples of Verbena Family Plants
- Lantana: These are popular shrubs known for their clusters of small, colorful flowers that change color as they age. They are often grown in warm climates.
- Verbena: Many species of Verbena are grown as garden plants. They have small, often purple or pink flowers that grow in spikes or clusters. Some are used in herbal teas.
- Golden Dewdrop (Duranta erecta): This plant is a shrub or small tree with pretty blue or purple flowers and bright yellow berries. It's often used as a hedge or ornamental plant.
Images for kids
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Golden dew drops (Duranta erecta)
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Glandularia pulchella in Kerala
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See also
In Spanish: Verbenaceae para niños
