Definition

Proper noun A large family of flowering plants, the figwort family, within the order Lamiales. It is characterized by typically having bilaterally symmetrical flowers with fused petals. Many species are herbaceous plants, and some are partial parasites.

Usage

• The plant taxonomist specialized in the study of Scrophulariaceae.
• Recent DNA analysis has led to the reclassification of many genera formerly placed in Scrophulariaceae.

Advanced Usage

• In traditional, broad classifications, Scrophulariaceae included many well-known garden genera like (snapdragon) and (foxglove). Modern phylogenetic studies have reassigned numerous genera to other families such as Plantaginaceae and Orobanchaceae.

Variants and Related Words

• scrophulariaceous (adjective): Of or relating to the family Scrophulariaceae.
  • The botanist identified the flower's scrophulariaceous characteristics.

Synonyms

• figwort family
• foxglove family (in traditional, broad usage)

Notes on Meaning

This is a scientific taxonomic term used primarily in botany, biology, and horticulture. Its circumscription (the list of genera included) has changed significantly due to molecular phylogenetic research in the 21st century.

Noun

1. a family of dicotyledonous plants of the order Polemoniales; includes figwort and snapdragon and foxglove and toadflax and speedwell and mullein; in some classifications placed in the order Scrophulariales