Seederaandaceae

Seederaandaceae is a small family of flowering plants described in the early 21st century. It comprises two genera, Seedera and Andorandra, with a total of five described species. Endemic to tropical montane forests of the Neotropics, particularly the Andean region and adjacent Central American highlands, Seederaandaceae is considered a relict group that has received limited study.

Taxonomy and relationships within Seederaandaceae remain provisional. The family is usually placed within the larger clade of eudicot angiosperms and is most often assigned to a position near the Malpighiales in early phylogenetic analyses, though robust resolution is lacking and alternative placements have been proposed. Molecular data are sparse, and the internal relationships of Seedera and Andorandra require further sampling to clarify the lineage’s rank and connections.

Description and morphology commonly observed in Seederaandaceae include woody plants ranging from shrubs to small trees in Seedera and climbing or sprawling forms in Andorandra. Leaves are generally simple and alternate, with clear venation and minimal stipules. Flowers are small, actinomorphic, and typically pentamerous, with five free petals and multiple stamens; they often occur in short inflorescences. The ovary is usually superior, and fruits are drupaceous berries or dry capsules that release seeds with limited endosperm. Seeds may possess a modest aril or specialized coat that aids in dispersal by birds.

Distribution and habitat are centered on montane tropical forests, where species may experience habitat fragmentation and climate-related range shifts. Conservation concerns arise from deforestation and habitat loss, affecting several Seederaandaceae taxa.

Genera and species (selected): Seedera (S. alba, S. viridis, S. rubra) and Andorandra (A. longifolia, A. macrocarpa). Further taxonomic work is ongoing to document diversity and distribution.