Shrubs, trees, lianas, sometimes perennial herbs. Approx. 1200 species in 66 genera (Judd et al, 1999) . Major genera are: Byrsonima, Heteropterys, Banisteriopsis
Distribution
Tropics, concentrated in S-America
Floral characters
Infloresecence usually terminate or axillary. Flowers bisexual, bilateral. Neotropical species with 2 conspicious abaxial, oil--producing glands on sepals. Oil glands vestigal or lacking on a few neotropical species and most paleotropical species. Sepals 5, distinct to basally connate. Petals 5, distinct, usually clawed, often with toothed or fringed margins, imbricate. Stamens usually 3-5. Carpels usually 3, connate. Ovary superior, with one ovule per locule. Various stimgas. Nectaries absent
Leaf characters
Opposite, simple, entire, sometimes lobed with pinnate venation. Glands present
Stipules
present
Fruit characters
Samaroid schizocarp, schizocarp drupe, usually containing 3 seeds
Glands
present; on sepals and blade or petiole of leaves
Hairs
present; 1-celled with 2-T,V- or Y-shaped arms
Latex
absent
Uses
Byrsonima crassifolia cultivated for production of beverages and medicine. Banisteriopsis caapi used as hallucinogetic drug. Malpighia glabra, Stigmaphyllon spp. as ornamentals
Chemical characters
Alcaloids, Harmins and Harmalins
Distribution maps
(online von http://www.mobot.org/MOBOT/research/APweb/ . Dort zitiert wie unter jedem Diagramm vermerkt):
