Mittenaceae

Mittenaceae is a family of flowering plants in the order Lamiales. It is a relatively small family, with only one genus, Mittenia, and two known species. Both species are endemic to the island of Madagascar. The plants are small, herbaceous perennials, typically growing in moist, shaded habitats. They are characterized by their simple, opposite leaves and their solitary, actinomorphic flowers, which are usually white or pale pink. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous small seeds. Mittenia ovata and Mittenia petiolata are the two recognized species within the Mittenaceae family. Their limited geographic distribution and specific habitat requirements make them vulnerable to environmental changes. Further research is ongoing to understand the full diversity and ecological role of this unique plant family.