Vitaceae facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Vitaceae |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Vitis vinifera, wine grapes | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Division: | |
| Class: | |
| Order: |
Vitales
Burnett
|
| Family: |
Vitaceae
Juss., nom. cons.
|
| Genera | |
|
|
The Vitaceae are a special group of flowering plants. This family includes many well-known plants. The most famous one is the grape vine. You might also know the Virginia creeper, which is a common climbing plant.
The name Vitaceae comes from the word Vitis. This is the scientific name for the genus that includes grapes. Sometimes, you might see this family called "Vitidaceae." But Vitaceae is the official name that scientists use.
Contents
What Makes Vitaceae Special?
Scientists study how different plant families are related. For a long time, it was a bit of a mystery where Vitaceae fit in. They don't seem to have many close relatives. This makes them a unique and interesting group of plants.
Most plants in the Vitis group have 38 chromosomes. But some, like the Muscadinia grapes, have 40 chromosomes. Other plants in the family, like Ampelocissus and Parthenocissus, also have 40 chromosomes.
Why Are Vitaceae Important?
The Vitaceae family is very important to people around the world. This is mainly because of grapes.
Grapes and Their Uses
Grapes (from the Vitis species) are a major fruit crop. People eat them fresh as a healthy snack. They are also used to make many delicious things.
- Juice: Grape juice is a popular drink.
- Jelly and Jam: Grapes are used to make sweet spreads for toast.
- Raisins: When grapes are dried, they become raisins. These are great in snacks and baking.
- Wine: Grapes are also fermented to make wine. This has been done for thousands of years.
Other Interesting Plants
Besides grapes, other plants in the Vitaceae family are also interesting. For example, some plants in the Tetrastigma group are special. They act as hosts for other plants called Rafflesiaceae. These are parasitic plants, meaning they get their food from the host plant.
There's also a plant called Leea. Some scientists used to think it belonged in its own family. But now, most scientists agree that Leea is part of the Vitaceae family too.
See also
In Spanish: Vitáceas para niños
