Urticaceae
Urticaceae
Urticaceae (pronounced: ur-ti-ka-see-ee) is a family of flowering plants, also known as the nettle family. The name is derived from the Latin word urtica, meaning "nettle".
Etymology
The term Urticaceae is derived from the genus Urtica, which is the Latin name for nettles. The suffix "-aceae" is a standard ending in botanical nomenclature for plant families.
Description
The Urticaceae family includes a diverse group of plants, ranging from herbs and shrubs to small trees. The most notable characteristic of these plants is the presence of stinging hairs, which contain irritants that can cause a painful sting when touched.
Genera
The Urticaceae family includes several genera, including Urtica, Pilea, Boehmeria, and Parietaria. Each of these genera includes numerous species with varying characteristics.
Distribution
Plants in the Urticaceae family are found worldwide, with the highest diversity in tropical regions.
Uses
Many species within the Urticaceae family have been used for various purposes throughout history. For example, the stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has been used for its medicinal properties, as well as for making textiles.
Related Terms
- Urtica: A genus of plants within the Urticaceae family, commonly known as nettles.
- Pilea: A genus of plants within the Urticaceae family, known for their ornamental value.
- Boehmeria: A genus of plants within the Urticaceae family, including the ramie (Boehmeria nivea), used for making textiles.
- Parietaria: A genus of plants within the Urticaceae family, also known as pellitory.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Urticaceae
- Wikipedia's article - Urticaceae
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