Liliaceae

Liliaceae is a family of flowering plants, commonly known as the lily family. It encompasses a diverse group of monocotyledonous plants characterized by their often showy, six-tepaled flowers, typically arranged in three petals and three sepals that are nearly identical in appearance. These tepals may be distinct or fused at the base.

The plants in Liliaceae are usually perennial herbs, often arising from bulbs, rhizomes, or corms. Their leaves are generally simple, linear to lanceolate, and have parallel venation. The fruit is typically a capsule or a berry.

Liliaceae has a widespread distribution, occurring in temperate and tropical regions around the world. Many species are cultivated as ornamental plants for their attractive flowers, while others are grown for their edible bulbs or leaves. Prominent examples of genera within Liliaceae include Lilium (true lilies), Tulipa (tulips), and Allium (which now belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family, but was traditionally classified within Liliaceae).

Taxonomic classification of Liliaceae has undergone significant revisions based on molecular phylogenetic data. Consequently, many genera formerly placed in Liliaceae have been reassigned to other families such as Amaryllidaceae, Melanthiaceae, and others. This reclassification reflects a better understanding of the evolutionary relationships among these plants. Therefore, the circumscription of Liliaceae has narrowed considerably compared to historical classifications. Current classifications generally include only genera closely related to Lilium.