CRUCIFERAE Meaning and
Definition
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Cruciferae, also known as Brassicaceae, is a family of flowering plants that includes well-known vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. This family is characterized by its distinctive four-petalled flowers that resemble a cross or crucifix, thus giving rise to the common name "Cruciferae."
The Cruciferae family is distributed worldwide, with the highest diversity found in temperate regions. The plants in this family are mostly herbaceous, although some species can be shrubs or even small trees. They are typically annual or biennial, with simple or lobed leaves and a variety of flower colors ranging from white and yellow to pink and purple.
Members of the Cruciferae family are known for their economic and dietary importance. Many of them are cultivated as crops for their edible leaves, stems, or roots. For instance, vegetables like kale, turnips, and radishes belong to this family. Additionally, several Cruciferae plants are used as a source of oil, such as canola and mustard.
Beyond their agricultural significance, Cruciferae plants also have ecological importance. They are known for their ability to accumulate sulfur compounds, which play a role in their defense against herbivores and pests. Some species in this family, like garden cress (Lepidium sativum), are also used in scientific research as model organisms, serving as valuable tools to understand various biological processes.
Overall, Cruciferae is a diverse plant family that includes many commonly consumed vegetables and plays a significant role in both agriculture and ecology.
Etymology of CRUCIFERAE
The word "Cruciferae" comes from Latin. It is derived from the combination of two Latin words: "crux", meaning "cross", and "ferre", meaning "to bear" or "to carry". The name "Cruciferae" was given to this botanical family due to the shape of its flowers, which resemble a cross when viewed from certain angles. The Cruciferae family includes plants such as cabbage, broccoli, mustard, and radish. In more recent times, the family has been reclassified as the Brassicaceae family.
Similar spelling words for CRUCIFERAE
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