Stemonaceae

Herbs [herbaceous vines, or low shrubs], caulescent [stemless], from rhizomes [tuberous roots]. Leaves simple, stipules absent. Basal leaves sheathing. Cauline leaves present [absent], alternate [whorled], petiolate, venation ± palmate [arcuate-pinnate with strongly developed midvein], transverse parallel veinlets connecting primary veins. Inflorescences axillary, cymose [racemose or unifloral]. Flowers bisexual, radially [bilaterally] symmetric; perianth hypogynous [to epigynous]; tepals 4[–5], distinct [connate]; stamens 4[–5], opposite tepals; ovary 1-locular; placentation apical [basal]; style 1 [absent]; stigmas [1]–3. Fruits capsular, 2[–3]-valved. Seeds globose [to ellipsoid].

Distribution

North America, e and se Asia, n Australia.

Discussion

Genera 4, species 30–35 (1 genus, 1 species in the flora).

Selected References

Rogers, G. K. 1982. The Stemonaceae in the southeastern United States. J. Arnold Arbor. 63: 327–336.

Whetstone, R. D. 1984. Notes on Croomia pauciflora (Stemonaceae). Rhodora 86: 131–137.

Lower Taxa

Croomia

Illustrations

	Family ⠉	Taxon	Illustrator ⠉
	Agavaceae Agavaceae Stemonaceae	Furcraea foetida Manfreda virginica Croomia pauciflora	Bee F. Gunn Bee F. Gunn Bee F. Gunn