Asteliaceae

Asteliaceae is a small family of monocotyledonous flowering plants. It is native to New Zealand, Australia, and South America. The family contains only two genera, Astelia and Bollingeria, with a total of about 20 species.

Plants in the Asteliaceae family are perennial herbs, typically growing in alpine or subalpine environments. They are characterized by their strap-like leaves, which are often silvery or glaucous due to a covering of fine hairs. The leaves are arranged in a basal rosette. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and are borne on branched inflorescences. They are typically dioecious, meaning that individual plants are either male or female. The fruit is a small berry.

The genus Astelia is the larger of the two genera, with about 18 species. Astelia species are found in New Zealand, Australia, and South America. They are often found in damp, shaded habitats, such as forests and bogs. Some Astelia species are used for their ornamental value, and their leaves are sometimes used in floral arrangements.

The genus Bollingeria contains only one species, Bollingeria argentea, which is endemic to New Zealand. This species is found in alpine and subalpine regions, and it is often associated with rocky outcrops.

Asteliaceae is a relatively recently recognized family, having been separated from the Liliaceae family in the late 20th century. Its classification is based on molecular and morphological evidence. The family is considered to be related to the order Asparagales.