Definition

Proper noun A taxonomic family of flowering plants, sometimes classified separately but often included within the family Guttiferae (Clusiaceae). It is used in certain botanical classification systems to group plants commonly known as St. John's worts and related species.

Usage

This term is used in the specialized context of botanical taxonomy. It names a specific family of plants. * The botanist reclassified the specimen under family Hypericaceae. * Some systems recognize Hypericaceae, while others place these genera in Clusiaceae.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic discussions: The term is used to debate or specify the classification of certain dicotyledonous plants, particularly those of the genus .
  • The debate centered on whether to maintain the family Hypericaceae or to subsume it into a broader Clusiaceae.

Variants and Related Words

• Hypericaceae: The more common form of the family name, used without the word "family."
  • The order Malpighiales includes the family Hypericaceae.
• Guttiferae: An older, alternative family name largely synonymous with Clusiaceae.
• Clusiaceae: The family name under which Hypericaceae is often subsumed in modern classifications.

Synonyms

• St. John's wort family: A common name for this group of plants.

Noun

1. used in some classification systems for plants usually included among the Guttiferae