Rutaceae

Rutaceae, commonly known as the rue or citrus family, is a diverse group of flowering plants in the order Sapindales. The family comprises roughly 150 genera and about 1,700 species, widespread in tropical and subtropical regions with a number of temperate representatives. Members range from shrubs to large trees, many of which are aromatic due to essential oils in the leaves and other tissues.

Leaves are typically alternate and can be simple or compound; many species show prominent oil glands that release characteristic fragrances when crushed. The flowers are usually small, bisexual, and five-petaled, often arranged in umbels or other inflorescences. They tend to have a conspicuous number of stamens and a standard set of floral organs, contributing to a recognizable, though diverse, appearance across genera.

Fruit types within Rutaceae are highly variable. The best-known example is citrus fruit from the genus Citrus, which forms a hesperidium. Other genera produce capsules, berries, or drupes. The high diversity of fruit types reflects the ecological variety of the family.

Economically, Rutaceae is important mainly for Citrus, including oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, which are major fruit crops and sources of essential oils. The family also contains shrub and tree genera valued for ornamentals, such as Ruta (rue) and various members of Aurantioideae and related groups, which contribute to essential oils used in flavors, fragrances, and traditional medicines. Phylogenetically, Rutaceae is divided into several subfamilies, with Aurantioideae containing Citrus and its close relatives.