Viiniköynnöskasvien

Viiniköynnöskasvien, scientifically known as Vitaceae, is a family of flowering plants that primarily consists of climbing vines. These plants are distributed across the tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions of the world. The most well-known member of this family is the grape vine, Vitis vinifera, which is cultivated globally for its fruit used in making wine, raisins, and juice.

Key characteristics of the Vitaceae family include their tendrils, which are modified branches or leaf stalks that help the vines climb. Many species have palmate or lobed leaves. The flowers are typically small and inconspicuous, often greenish or yellowish, and are arranged in clusters. The fruit of most vitaceous plants is a berry.

While grapes are the most economically significant, other genera within Vitaceae also have uses. For example, Cissus species are sometimes grown as houseplants, and Parthenocissus species, such as Virginia creeper, are used as ornamental climbers. Some species produce edible fruits, though they are generally not as commercially important as grapes. The family is notable for its diverse reproductive strategies, with some species being dioecious (having separate male and female plants) and others monoecious (having both male and female flowers on the same plant). The ecological role of Vitaceae often involves providing habitat and food for various wildlife.