Didymocarpoideae

Didymocarpoideae is a subfamily within the flowering plant family Gesneriaceae. It encompasses a large and diverse group of mostly tropical Old World genera, many of which are epiphytic or lithophytic herbs and climbers. The subfamily is one of two major clades in Gesneriaceae in modern classifications, the other being Gesnerioideae, which contains many American lineages. Molecular phylogenetic studies have supported Didymocarpoideae as a cohesive group within Gesneriaceae and have helped clarify the distribution and relationships of its genera.

Morphology within Didymocarpoideae is diverse, but members commonly exhibit opposite leaves and zygomorphic flowers with a tubular, often bilabiate corolla. The floral tubes and calyces tend to be well developed, and many species produce showy flowers that are adapted to pollination by specific insects or birds. Growth forms range from herbaceous perennials to creeping or climbing vines, with many species adapted to forest canopies as epiphytes.

Distribution and habitat are centered in Asia and surrounding regions, including the Himalayas, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Indian subcontinent, with a number of species also occurring in adjacent tropical environments. Habitats commonly include tropical forests, montane forests, and rocky substrates where moisture is available.

Notable and horticulturally important genera commonly associated with Didymocarpoideae include Aeschynanthus (lipstick plants) and Petrocosmea, among others such as Didymocarpus and Henckelia. These plants are valued in cultivation for their attractive flowers and compact growth habits.

See also: Gesneriaceae, Gesnerioideae.