Spinniaceae

Spinniaceae is a family of flowering plants that belongs to the order Malpighiales. The family is named after the genus Spinnacia, which includes the common spinach. Spinniaceae is characterized by its simple, alternate leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. The family is distributed primarily in the Northern Hemisphere, with the majority of species found in the Mediterranean region and the Middle East.

The family Spinniaceae includes several genera, with the most well-known being Spinnacia, which contains the cultivated spinach (Spinnacia oleracea). Other genera include Chenopodium, which includes species like fat hen (Chenopodium quinoa) and lamb's quarters (Chenopodium album), and Suaeda, which includes the saltbush (Suaeda maritima).

Spinniaceae plants are typically annual or perennial herbs, although some are shrubs or small trees. They are often found in saline or alkaline soils, and many species are halophytic, meaning they can tolerate high levels of salt. The family is economically important, with several species used as food sources, including spinach, quinoa, and lamb's quarters.

The taxonomy of Spinniaceae has been a subject of debate among botanists, with some classifications placing the family within the order Caryophyllales rather than Malpighiales. However, recent molecular phylogenetic studies have supported the placement of Spinniaceae within Malpighiales.