Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic family of flowering plants: "Family Melastomaceae" is the scientific name for a large family of dicotyledonous plants within the order Myrtales. It comprises trees, shrubs, and herbs, many of which are noted for their ornamental value and distinctive floral structures, often with stamens that exhibit conspicuous colors.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The botanist specialized in the study of Family Melastomaceae.
  • Many species within Family Melastomaceae are prized for their vibrant flowers.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic context: Used formally to refer to this specific plant family in scientific literature and classification.
  • The phylogenetic study focused on the evolutionary relationships within Family Melastomaceae.

Variants and Related Words

• Melastomataceae: This is the modern, accepted spelling for this plant family name. "Family Melastomaceae" is an older or alternative spelling.
  • The family Melastomataceae includes the popular ornamental genus Tibouchina.
• Melastome (n): A common name for plants belonging to this family.
  • The meadow was dotted with purple melastomes.

Synonyms

• Melastomataceae: The synonym and currently preferred scientific name.
• Meadow-beauty family: A common name for this family, derived from one of its genera (, known as meadow-beauties).

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Family Melastomaceae" is primarily used in botanical and horticultural contexts. In modern taxonomy, the spelling "Melastomataceae" is standard. The family is characterized by opposite leaves, flowers with often brightly colored stamens, and fruit that is typically a berry or capsule.

Noun

1. a family of trees and bushes and herbs of order Myrtales; many are cultivated as ornamentals