Picrodendraceae

Picrodendraceae is a family of flowering plants, commonly known as tropical almond or picrodendron family. The name is derived from the Greek words "pikros" meaning "bitter" and "dendron" meaning "tree". This family consists of approximately 219 species that are distributed across the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, with the majority being found in Central and South America, and the Pacific Islands.

The plants in this family are primarily shrubs and small trees, often growing up to a height of 5 meters. The leaves are typically alternate and simple, with a waxy or leathery texture. The flowers are small, usually unisexual, and are grouped in clusters or spikes. The fruit is a capsule that usually opens explosively to disperse the seeds.

This family is known for its medicinal properties, with some species' leaves and bark having been used traditionally to treat various ailments, including fever and skin conditions. Additionally, some species of Picrodendraceae are used as ornamental plants in tropical gardens and landscapes.

The family is divided into five genera: Aristotelia, Hilairella, Picrodendrum, Petalhosta, and Platybaea. While there is ongoing research into the systematics of this family, it is still a topic of debate among botanists. Some studies suggest that this family may be a subset within the larger Euphorbiaceae family, while others contend that it should remain a distinct family due to its unique characteristics and morphology. Further research is necessary to fully understand the relationships within the Picrodendraceae family.