Saururaceae

Saururaceae is a small family of flowering plants, commonly known as the lizard's tail family. It comprises only five species in two genera, Saururus and Anemopsis. These plants are native to East Asia and North America, typically found in moist or wet habitats such as swamps, marshes, and stream banks. The family is characterized by its distinctive inflorescence, which often resembles a lizard's tail, giving rise to its common name.

The most well-known species is Saururus cernuus, commonly called lizard's tail, which is widespread in eastern North America. Anemopsis californica, or yerba mansa, is found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Saururaceae plants are perennial herbs with rhizomatous root systems. Their leaves are typically heart-shaped or ovate and arranged alternately along the stem. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, lacking petals and sepals, and are borne in dense, terminal spikes. These spikes droop or curve downwards, contributing to the "lizard's tail" appearance. The fruit is a small, dry capsule containing tiny seeds.

Historically, members of this family have been used in traditional medicine by indigenous peoples for various ailments. Modern uses are limited, though some ornamental species are cultivated for their attractive foliage and unique flower spikes. The family is of interest to botanists due to its distinct morphology and its phylogenetic position within the order Piperales.