Hylaceae

Hylaceae is a family of plants in the order Lamiales. This family is native to tropical and subtropical regions, primarily found in the Americas and Africa. Hylaceae comprises woody shrubs and trees, often characterized by their simple, opposite leaves and inflorescences that can be terminal or axillary. The flowers are typically bisexual, with a sympetalous corolla, and they are pollinated by insects. The fruit is usually a capsule or a berry.

Genera within Hylaceae include Hylia, a genus with a few species found in the Neotropics. These plants are often found in moist forests and woodlands. The taxonomic placement of Hylaceae has been subject to revision with the advent of molecular phylogenetic studies. Historically, it has been placed in various orders, but current consensus often aligns it within Lamiales. Research into the family's evolutionary history and biogeography continues to refine our understanding of its relationships and distribution patterns. Some species may have traditional uses, but these are not widely documented or standardized. The ecological roles of Hylaceae species are varied, contributing to the biodiversity of their respective ecosystems, supporting local fauna through habitat and food sources.