Rutaceae
Rutaceae Juss. comprises approximately 160–170 genera and 2,000–2,100 species, distributed mainly in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions worldwide. Molecular phylogenetic studies recognize several major subfamilies and tribes, clarifying relationships among economically important genera such as Citrus, Murraya, Ruta, Zanthoxylum, Aegle, and Clausena. Members are distinguished by gland-dotted aromatic leaves, flowers with a conspicuous nectar disc, superior ovaries, and hesperidium fruits in Citrus.
Key characteristics
- Trees or shrubs; rarely herbs
- Plants aromatic
- Leaves gland-dotted with essential oil cavities
- Leaves simple or compound
- Flowers actinomorphic
- Nectar disc well developed
- Ovary superior
- Fruit usually a hesperidium in Citrus
Distribution
Rutaceae occurs throughout the Tropics, Subtropics, Warm temperate regions. Major centres of diversity include Southeast Asia, Australia, Southern Africa, Tropical America, Madagascar. Species inhabit Tropical forests, Dry forests, Shrublands, Savannas, Limestone hills, Coastal forests. Rutaceae is well represented in Pakistan through both native and cultivated species. The family occurs in Potohar Plateau, Salt Range. Habitats include Orchards, Forest margins, Dry hills, Scrublands, Botanical gardens, Home gardens. Representative Pakistani genera include Citrus, Murraya, Ruta, Aegle, Zanthoxylum, Clausena.