Contents
Description
Chloranthales is a small order of flowering plants that consists of only five genera and approximately 75 species. These plants are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world and are known for their unique characteristics such as the presence of net-veined leaves and perfect flowers. The order is named after the Greek words “chloros” meaning green and “anthos” meaning flower.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Chloranthales |
| Family | Chloranthaceae |
| Genus | Ascarina, Chloranthus, Hedyosmum, Peumus, & Sarcandra |
Appearance
Chloranthales plants are relatively small in size, ranging from 1 to 15 meters in height. They have simple, alternate leaves that are net-veined and have a leathery texture. The flowers are small and unremarkable in appearance, but they are perfect, meaning that they have both male and female reproductive parts. The fruit of Chloranthales plants is a fleshy drupe that contains a single seed.
Care Guide
Chloranthales plants are relatively low-maintenance and require moderate care. They prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilization should be done once every two to three months, using a balanced fertilizer. Chloranthales plants require moderate sunlight, but they can also tolerate shade. These plants are hardy and can grow in USDA zones 7 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chloranthales plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Chloranthales plants may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, which can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Chloranthales plants are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. They typically grow in moist, shaded areas such as forests and riverbanks. These plants are an important food source for many species of birds and mammals, including bats and primates.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the meaning of the name Chloranthales?
A: The name Chloranthales comes from the Greek words “chloros” meaning green and “anthos” meaning flower.
Q: How many genera and species are there in Chloranthales?
A: Chloranthales consists of five genera and approximately 75 species.
Q: What is the habitat of Chloranthales?
A: Chloranthales plants are typically found in moist, shaded areas such as forests and riverbanks.
Q: What is the fruit of Chloranthales plants?
A: The fruit of Chloranthales plants is a fleshy drupe that contains a single seed.
Related Plants
- Piperaceae
- Lauraceae
- Annonaceae
- Magnoliaceae
References
- Haston, E., Richardson, J. E., Stevens, P. F., Chase, M. W., & Harris, D. J. (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.
- Judd, W. S., Campbell, C. S., Kellogg, E. A., Stevens, P. F., & Donoghue, M. J. (2016). Plant systematics: a phylogenetic approach. John Wiley & Sons.
- Stevens, P. F. (2001 onwards). Angiosperm Phylogeny Website. Version 14, July 2017 [and more or less continuously updated since].
