Nitrariaceae

Nitrariaceae is a small family of flowering plants in the order Sapindales. It is represented by the genus Nitraria, a group of halophytic shrubs and small trees native to saline and arid regions of the Old World. The circumscription of Nitrariaceae has varied; in older classifications Nitraria was placed in Zygophyllaceae. Current systems, including APG IV, recognize Nitrariaceae as a distinct family.

Description: Plants in Nitrariaceae are shrubs or small trees with simple leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. The fruit is typically a small fleshy drupe or berry that can persist on the plant and may be salt-tolerant. The seeds are generally small and adapted to dispersal by animals or water.

Distribution and habitat: Nitraria species are native to Europe, Asia and North Africa, occupying saline soils, deserts, steppes and coastal regions where soil salinity or drought limit other vegetation.

Ecology and uses: The family is adapted to high salinity and drought, contributing to soil stabilization and ecological restoration. Fruits are eaten locally in some regions, and species have been studied for salt tolerance and potential pharmacological uses.