Saururaceae

Description

Saururaceae is a family of plants that includes only about 5 genera and 15 species. These plants are native to North America and Asia and are characterized by their unique appearance and habit. The most well-known member of this family is Saururus cernuus, also known as Lizard’s Tail, which is a popular herb with medicinal properties. The other genera in this family are Anemopsis, Gymnotheca, Houttuynia, and Lophopyrum.

Taxonomic Information

The taxonomic information for Saururaceae is as follows:

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Piperales
Family	Saururaceae
Genus	Anemopsis, Gymnotheca, Houttuynia, Lophopyrum, Saururus

Appearance

Saururaceae plants are generally herbaceous perennials that grow in clumps or colonies. They have simple, alternate leaves that are usually heart-shaped or arrowhead-shaped, and their flowers are usually small, white, and arranged in spikes. The most distinctive feature of Saururaceae plants is their unique inflorescence, which consists of a long, slender spike with tiny flowers arranged in whorls along its length. The inflorescence of Lizard’s Tail, for example, resembles the tail of a lizard, hence its common name. The flowers of Saururaceae plants are not particularly showy, but they are interesting and unusual, making these plants a favorite of many gardeners and plant enthusiasts.

Care Guide

If you want to grow Saururaceae plants in your garden or home, here are some care tips to follow:

• Water: Saururaceae plants prefer moist soil, so be sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells. However, make sure not to overwater them or let them sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Saururaceae plants do not require heavy fertilization, but you can give them a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth.
• Soil: Saururaceae plants prefer well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey, as long as the soil is not too compacted or waterlogged.
• Sunlight: Saururaceae plants prefer partial shade to full shade, although some species can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
• Hardiness Zones: Saururaceae plants are generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9, although some species can tolerate colder or warmer temperatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Saururaceae plants are generally not prone to serious pests or diseases, but they can occasionally be affected by the following:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cluster on the undersides of the leaves, causing yellowing and distortion. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide or by improving air circulation and reducing humidity.

Habitat

Saururaceae plants are native to North America and Asia and are found in a variety of habitats, from wetlands and swamps to forests and meadows. They prefer moist, shady environments and can often be found growing near streams or other bodies of water. Some species, such as Lizard’s Tail, are also adapted to growing in standing water and can tolerate boggy conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Are Saururaceae plants easy to grow?

A: Yes, Saururaceae plants are generally easy to grow, as long as you provide them with moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade.

Q: Can you propagate Saururaceae plants?

A: Yes, Saururaceae plants can be propagated by division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring or early summer.

Q: Are Saururaceae plants toxic to pets?

A: There is no evidence to suggest that Saururaceae plants are toxic to pets, but as with any plant, it is best to keep them out of reach of curious animals.

Q: What is the medicinal use of Lizard’s Tail?

A: Lizard’s Tail has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and inflammation. It is also used as a diuretic and to promote sweating.

Related Plants

Other plant families that are closely related to Saururaceae include:

• Piperaceae (Pepper family)
• Saururaceae (Lizard’s Tail family)
• Hydnoraceae (Jackal food family)

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden: Saururaceae
• North Carolina State University: Saururaceae
• University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture: Lizard’s Tail
• University of Michigan Herbarium: Saururaceae