Vitaceae
Vitaceae Juss. comprises approximately 14–16 genera and 950–1,000 species, distributed predominantly in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions worldwide. Molecular phylogenetic studies confirm that Vitaceae is the sole family of the order Vitales, representing one of the earliest-diverging lineages of the rosid clade. Members are characterized by woody climbing vines with tendrils opposite the leaves, swollen nodes, small greenish flowers, superior ovaries, and fleshy berry fruits.
Key characteristics
- Woody climbers with tendrils
- Tendrils opposite the leaves
- Nodes often swollen
- Leaves alternate, palmately veined
- Flowers small and greenish
- Nectariferous disc present
- Ovary superior
- Fruit a berry (grape)
Distribution
Vitaceae is distributed throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Australia. The highest diversity occurs in East Asia, Southeast Asia, Tropical Africa, Tropical America. Habitats include Temperate forests, Tropical forests, Riverbanks, Mountain valleys, Woodland margins, Vineyards, Scrublands. Vitaceae occurs naturally and in cultivation throughout Pakistan. The family is distributed in Potohar Plateau, Salt Range. Habitats include Mountain forests, River valleys, Agricultural lands, Orchards, Vineyards, Forest margins. Representative Pakistani genera include Vitis, Ampelopsis, Parthenocissus, Cissus.