Myrothamnaceae

Myrothamnaceae is a small family of flowering plants in the order Saxifragales. The family contains a single genus, Myrothamnus, with two species. These species are found in arid and semi-arid regions of Africa and Madagascar.

Myrothamnus species are known for their remarkable ability to survive extreme drought. They are resurrection plants, meaning they can withstand complete desiccation of their tissues and revive when rehydrated. This adaptation is crucial for their survival in environments with infrequent rainfall. The leaves of Myrothamnus are small and leathery, with a waxy cuticle that helps reduce water loss. When dry, the leaves curl inwards and become brittle, giving the plant a shriveled appearance. Upon contact with water, the leaves unfurl and regain their green color.

The flowers of Myrothamnus are inconspicuous and wind-pollinated. They are dioecious, with separate male and female plants. The fruit is a small, dehiscent capsule containing numerous tiny seeds.

The family Myrothamnaceae was traditionally placed in the order Rosales, but molecular phylogenetic studies have placed it within the Saxifragales, alongside families like Crassulaceae and Saxifragaceae. This placement reflects a deeper evolutionary relationship with other families that also exhibit adaptations to xeric environments. Despite their ecological significance and unique physiology, Myrothamnus species are not widely cultivated, though their resurrection capabilities have garnered interest from researchers studying plant drought tolerance.