Ajakosvirágúak

Ajakosvirágúak, also known as Lamiaceae or Labiatae, is a large and diverse family of flowering plants. This family is distinguished by its characteristic two-lipped flowers, hence the common names "mint family" or "dead-nettle family." The flowers are typically zygomorphic, meaning they can be divided into two mirror-image halves. They often possess a prominent upper lip and a lower lip, which can be further divided into lobes.

The Lamiaceae family is widespread, found in temperate and tropical regions across the globe. Members of this family are often aromatic, containing essential oils that contribute to their scent. This aromatic quality is a defining feature of many genera within the family. The leaves are usually arranged oppositely on the stem, often in decussate pairs, meaning each pair is at a right angle to the pair above and below it.

Economically, the Lamiaceae family is of great importance. Many species are cultivated for culinary herbs, such as mint, basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. These herbs are widely used in cooking for their flavor and fragrance. Additionally, some members of the family are grown for medicinal purposes, with various traditional and modern uses attributed to their compounds. Ornamental plants like salvia and lavender also belong to this family, valued for their attractive flowers and foliage. The family's members exhibit a wide range of growth habits, from small annual herbs to shrubs and even small trees.