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Description
Malpighiales is an order of flowering plants that comprises about 16,000 species from 39 families. This diverse group of plants includes trees, shrubs, vines, and herbs that are found in various habitats worldwide. Malpighiales are known for their economic, medicinal, and ornamental values. Some of the famous plants in this order include the rubber tree, cassava, and the poinsettia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | 39 families including Euphorbiaceae, Malpighiaceae, and Salicaceae |
| Genus | 16,000 species including Hevea, Manihot, and Euphorbia |
Appearance
Malpighiales exhibit a wide range of morphological features. The plants can be deciduous or evergreen, and their leaves can be simple or compound. Malpighiales also have various flower structures, including regular or irregular flowers, male or female flowers, and bisexual or unisexual flowers. The fruits of Malpighiales can be capsules, berries, or drupes.
Care Guide
Malpighiales require proper care to thrive. Here are some tips:- Water: Most Malpighiales prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering. Avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season.- Soil: Malpighiales prefer slightly acidic soil with good drainage.- Sunlight: Malpighiales prefer full sun to partial shade, depending on the species.- Hardiness Zones: Malpighiales have different hardiness zones, so choose a plant that is suitable for your area.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malpighiales can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves.- Scale insects: These small insects can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth.- Bacterial leaf spot: This disease causes brown spots on leaves and can lead to leaf drop.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on leaves.
Habitat
Malpighiales are found in various habitats worldwide, including tropical rainforests, savannas, deserts, and temperate regions. Some species are adapted to specific habitats, such as mangroves, salt marshes, and rocky areas.
Question and Answer
Q1: What are some famous plants in the Malpighiales order?
A1: Some famous plants in the Malpighiales order include the rubber tree, cassava, and the poinsettia.
Q2: What type of soil do Malpighiales prefer?
A2: Malpighiales prefer slightly acidic soil with good drainage.
Q3: What are some common pests that affect Malpighiales?
A3: Some common pests that affect Malpighiales include spider mites and scale insects.
Q4: Where are Malpighiales found?
A4: Malpighiales are found in various habitats worldwide, including tropical rainforests, savannas, deserts, and temperate regions.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Malpighiales order:- Euphorbia pulcherrima (poinsettia)- Hevea brasiliensis (rubber tree)- Passiflora incarnata (purple passionflower)- Salix nigra (black willow)
References
– Stevens, P. F. (2001 onwards). Angiosperm Phylogeny Website. Version 14, July 2017. http://www.mobot.org/MOBOT/research/APweb/- The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. (n.d.). Malpighiales. https://www.kew.org/science/tropamerica/malpighiales
