Contents
Description
Chloranthaceae is a family of flowering plants that includes around 80 species of trees and shrubs native to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The plants in this family are characterized by their simple, alternate leaves, small and inconspicuous flowers, and fleshy fruit. Some species of Chloranthaceae are used in traditional medicine, while others are cultivated as ornamental plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Chloranthales |
| Family | Chloranthaceae |
| Genus | Chloranthus |
Appearance
Chloranthaceae plants have simple, alternate leaves that are usually glossy and leathery. The flowers of Chloranthaceae are small and inconspicuous, often green or white in color, and arranged in clusters or spikes. The fruit of Chloranthaceae is fleshy and often brightly colored, containing one or two seeds. Some species of Chloranthaceae have a strong, pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
Chloranthaceae plants thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They prefer partial shade to full shade, and should be protected from direct sunlight. Chloranthaceae plants require regular watering, but should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize Chloranthaceae plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer. Chloranthaceae plants are generally hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chloranthaceae plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot if they are over-watered or if the soil does not drain properly. Chloranthaceae plants may also be attacked by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Habitat
Chloranthaceae plants are native to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Chloranthaceae plants toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Chloranthaceae plants are toxic to pets.
Q: Can Chloranthaceae plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, some species of Chloranthaceae can be grown indoors as houseplants.
Q: Do Chloranthaceae plants require pruning?
A: Chloranthaceae plants do not require pruning, but can be pruned to control their size and shape.
Q: Are Chloranthaceae plants drought tolerant?
A: Chloranthaceae plants are not particularly drought tolerant and should be watered regularly.
Related Plants
- Sarcandra glabra
- Ascarina lucida
- Hedyosmum arborescens
- Peperomia obtusifolia
References
- Chen, W. H., & Li, H. L. (2004). Chloranthaceae. In Flora of China (Vol. 7, pp. 1-22).
- Christenhusz, M. J. M., & Byng, J. W. (2016). The number of known plants species in the world and its annual increase. Phytotaxa, 261(3), 201-217.
- Haston, E., Richardson, J. E., Stevens, P. F., Chase, M. W., Harris, D. J., & Hawkins, J. A. (2009). The Linear Angiosperm Phylogeny Group (LAPG) III: a linear sequence of the families in APG III. Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 161(2), 128-131.
