asterids

Asterids are a large clade of flowering plants within the angiosperms, belonging to the core eudicots. They contain a substantial portion of living plant diversity, with many thousands of species arranged into numerous families. Among the best known are Asteraceae (sunflowers and daisies), Solanaceae (tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and tobacco), Lamiaceae (mints), Rubiaceae (coffee and gardenias), Oleaceae (olives and jasmines), and Campanulaceae (bellflowers). The group is widespread and includes a wide range of growth forms, from herbs to shrubs and trees.

Phylogeny and classification are based largely on molecular data. Asterids are one of the two major lineages of the core eudicots, the other being rosids. Modern classifications recognize two large subclades within the asterids: euasterids I (often called lamiids) and euasterids II (often called campanulids), which together encompass many orders such as Lamiales, Gentianales, Asterales, and Campanulales. Because the clade is defined primarily by phylogenetic relationships, its morphological features are diverse and not universal; there is no single trait shared by all members.

Evolution and ecology: Asterids are believed to have originated in the Late Cretaceous and subsequently underwent extensive diversification, contributing significantly to the composition of modern flora. They occupy a wide variety of habitats and play major roles in ecosystems as primary producers and as sources of food, medicine, and ornamental plants.