Solanaceae: meaning, definitions and examples
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Solanaceae
[ səˌlænəˈseɪ.i ]
botanical family
Solanaceae, commonly known as the nightshade family, is a family of flowering plants that includes many important agricultural crops and ornamental plants. This family is characterized by the presence of alkaloids, which are often toxic. Notable members include potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplants.
Synonyms
nightshade family
Examples of usage
- Tomatoes are classified under the Solanaceae family.
- Some plants in the Solanaceae family contain toxic alkaloids.
- The Solanaceae family includes both edible and ornamental plants.
Etymology
The term 'Solanaceae' originates from the Latin word 'solanum', which means 'nightshade'. The family name was formally established in the 18th century by botanist Carl Linnaeus, who classified plants based on shared characteristics. The Solanaceae family is widely studied not only for its economic significance but also for its diverse range of species, including both crops and wildflowers. The family comprises over 2,000 species of flowering plants, many of which are native to the Americas and have evolved to adapt to various climates and habitats. The presence of alkaloids in many of the Solanaceae members has led to both culinary uses and caution regarding toxicity, making this family significant in both agriculture and medicine.