Cannabaceae

Hop plant, a member of the Cannabaceae family

The Cannabaceae is a small family of flowering plants in the order Rosales. The family includes about 11 genera and approximately 170 species. Members of this family are found primarily in temperate regions, although some species are also found in tropical areas.

Description

Cannabaceae are typically herbaceous plants, shrubs, or small trees. The leaves are usually simple, alternate, and stipulate. The flowers are often small and inconspicuous, with separate male and female flowers (dioecious), although some species are monoecious.

The fruit is typically a small drupe or achene. The family is best known for its economically important species, such as Cannabis (hemp and marijuana) and Humulus (hops).

Genera

The Cannabaceae family includes the following genera:

• Cannabis
• Humulus
• Celtis
• Trema
• Aphananthe
• Gironniera
• Lozanella
• Parasponia
• Pteroceltis
• Chaetachme
• Celtidopsis

Economic Importance

The Cannabaceae family includes several species of significant economic importance:

• Cannabis sativa: This species is cultivated for its fibers (hemp), seeds, and psychoactive properties (marijuana). Hemp fibers are used in textiles, paper, and biodegradable plastics.

• Humulus lupulus: Commonly known as hops, this species is used in the brewing industry to add flavor and stability to beer. The female flowers (cones) of the hop plant are used in brewing.

Phylogeny and Evolution

The Cannabaceae family is part of the order Rosales, which also includes families such as Rosaceae and Moraceae. Molecular phylogenetic studies have helped clarify the relationships within the family and its position within the Rosales.

Related Pages

• Cannabis
• Humulus
• Rosales
• Hemp
• Marijuana

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  Cannabaceae
• 
  Golden Hop