| Classification |
| Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order Type: Eudicots-Rosids I
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Linaceae
Family Common Name: Flax Family
Genera: Linum |
Defining Features: The family
is well defined by its distinctive flower characters, which include deciduous
petals, which fall easily.
Defining Morphology: Floral
Features: Flowers are bisexual and actinomorphic. Flowers are mostly in
cymes with 5-merous. Petals are distinct and often clawed. Stamens with
filaments united at the base. Ovaries are superior with axile placentation.
Fruit and Seed Features: Dicotyledon. Fruits are often capsule (rarely
a drupe). Vegetative Features: Habit as herbs and shrubs (lianas). Leaves
usually alternate, simple with entire margin.
Distribution: Widespread in
temperate regions, with a few in the tropics.
Economic Use: Most important
as the source of flax fiber used in cigarette paper, fine writing paper
and linen cloth. Also the source of linseed oil used in paint, ink and
varnish. The remaining seed pulp from this extraction is a source of animal
feed. Some species are cultivated as garden ornamentals.
Number of Genera Globally: 12
Number of Species Globally:
300
