Rubricaceae

Rubiaceae is a large and diverse family of flowering plants, commonly known as the coffee or madder family. It is one of the largest families in the dicotyledonous plants, with an estimated 13,500 species in 620 genera. The family is cosmopolitan, found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions around the world. Rubiaceae is characterized by opposite or whorled leaves, interpetiolar stipules, and actinomorphic or zygomorphic flowers with a superior ovary. The flowers are typically bisexual and have a sympetalous corolla. Fruits are usually capsules, berries, or drupes. The family is ecologically important, with many species playing significant roles in their ecosystems as food sources for animals and as components of various habitats. Economically, Rubiaceae is renowned for coffee (Coffea), which is derived from the seeds of several species. Other notable genera include Cinchona, the source of quinine, and Gardenia, known for its fragrant flowers. Many species are also used medicinally, ornamentally, or for dyes, such as the madder root (Rubia tinctorum). The phylogenetic relationships within Rubiaceae are complex and have been extensively studied using molecular data, revealing a deep evolutionary history and numerous diversification events.