The Magnoliaceae are characterized
by:
|
- sheathing stipules that abscise and leave a ring-like scar on the
stem.
|
|
- perianth parts all similar in color and texture (tepals)
|
|
|
|
|
- aggregate fruits on an elongated receptacle, usually of either
follicles or samaras
|
|
CLICK for a more detailed
character description. |
The Magnoliaceae is a small family, but many species are
extensively planted as ornamentals. Best known are the Magnolia sp. and the tulip tree, Liriodendron. Some are
also used for lumber. They have traditionally been considered as a prototypical
"primitive" angiosperm, being woody and having many spirally arranged parts
(tepals, stamens, carpels). Now there is some disagreement, however, about whether
or not these characteristics are "primitive." |