Verbenaceae

Lantana

Duranta repens (Golden Dew Drops) W IMG 9162

Phyla nodiflora (Frog fruit) W IMG 9874

Glandularia pulchella in Kadavoor

Verbenaceae, commonly known as the verbena family or vervain family, is a family of mainly tropical flowering plants. It includes trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Among the most well-known members of this family are the verbenas or vervains, plants that are found in both temperate and tropical climates. The family is significant for its economic, ornamental, and medicinal uses.

Description

Members of the Verbenaceae family are characterized by their opposite leaves, which can be simple or occasionally compound. The flowers are often small, with five united petals and are usually arranged in spikes or panicles. The fruit is typically a drupe or a nutlet, depending on the genus.

Distribution

The Verbenaceae family is widespread, occurring from temperate regions to the tropics. They are particularly abundant in South America and Africa. The diversity of habitats that these plants occupy is vast, ranging from forests to grasslands and desert regions.

Economic Importance

Several species within the Verbenaceae family are cultivated for their ornamental value, including various species of Lantana, Verbena, and Duranta. Lantana's vibrant flowers make it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping. In addition to their ornamental use, some members of the Verbenaceae family have traditional medicinal applications. For example, plants in the genus Verbena have been used in herbal medicine for their supposed antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Genera

The Verbenaceae family comprises numerous genera, some of the most notable include:

• Lantana - Known for its colorful, clustered flowers and use as ornamental plants.
• Verbena - Includes species commonly used in gardens for their attractive flowers and in traditional medicine.
• Duranta - Ornamental shrubs and trees, some species of which are used for hedging.

Taxonomy

The taxonomy of Verbenaceae has been subject to revision. It was once a larger family that included plants now placed in the Lamiaceae family. Molecular phylogenetic studies have helped clarify the relationships within the family and with related families.

Conservation

Some species within the Verbenaceae family are considered at risk due to habitat destruction and overcollection. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of these species, many of which have ecological and economic significance.

See Also

• Herbal medicine
• Ornamental plant
• Taxonomy