Zionaceae

Zionaceae is a family of plants in the order Brassicales. It is a small and poorly understood group of flowering plants. The family is characterized by its small size, with only one species, Zionia kingii, being described in scientific literature. This species is endemic to Angola in southern Africa.

The Zionia kingii plant is a small shrub that grows to a height of around 1 meter. It has small, white flowers without a noticeable scent. The plant's seeds are ribbed and brown, with a size of about 4-5 mm in length. Zionia kingii grows in sandy soils and open grasslands.

Zionaceae is part of the larger family Brassicaceae, although its exact relationships to other families in the order are unclear. The family is thought to be monotypic, with no other species currently recognized. Despite its small size, Zionia kingii has been of interest to plant taxonomists due to its unique characteristics.

Phylogenetic studies have suggested that Zionia kingii may be related to other species within the Brassicaceae family, possibly belonging to the subfamily Capparoidae. However, further research is needed to confirm these results and to clarify the relationship of Zionia to other families in the order. More study into the biology and ecology of Zionia kingii is needed to gain a better understanding of this small and enigmatic plant family.