Lauraceae

Overview

The Lauraceae are a family of flowering plants, sometimes called the laurel family. The family includes about 2850 known species in about 50 genera worldwide. They are distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, and have a center of diversity in Southeast Asia and South America. The family is derived from the order Laurales, which also includes the Saururaceae and Piperaceae families. The family is characterized by its aromatic members, many of which produce essential oils.

A close-up view of a laurel tree, showing its glossy green leaves and small, pale flowers.

Morphology

Members of the Lauraceae family are mostly trees and shrubs, with a few herbaceous plants. They are often evergreen, with simple, alternate, or rarely opposite leaves. The leaves are usually entire and often have a glossy surface. The flowers are small and unscented, with a perianth of six (rarely four or eight) tepals arranged in two whorls. The fruit is a drupe containing a single seed.

Taxonomy

The Lauraceae family is divided into two subfamilies: the Lauraceae and the Cassythoideae. The Lauraceae subfamily is further divided into several tribes, including the Laureae, Perseeae, and Cassytheae. The Cassythoideae subfamily contains only the single genus Cassytha, which is a group of parasitic plants.

Distribution and Habitat

Lauraceae are found in a wide range of habitats, from tropical rainforests to temperate forests. They are particularly diverse in Southeast Asia and South America, but are also found in Africa, Australia, and North America. They are typically found in humid environments, and many species are adapted to grow in the understory of forests.

Economic Importance

Several species in the Lauraceae family have significant economic value. The most well-known is probably the bay laurel (Laurus nobilis), from which bay leaves are harvested. The camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) is another important species, used for its aromatic oil and wood. The avocado (Persea americana) is also a member of this family, as are several species of cinnamon (Cinnamomum).

Conservation

Many species in the Lauraceae family are threatened by habitat loss, particularly in tropical regions where deforestation is a major issue. Several species are listed as endangered or critically endangered on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts for these species typically focus on habitat preservation and the establishment of protected areas.