Linales
Linales is an order of flowering plants, included in the rosid group under the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group classification (APG). It typically comprises plants that are herbaceous or woody, and possess alternate leaves.
Characteristics:
Plants within the Linales order are generally characterized by the presence of glandular hairs or dots, simple or compound leaves (though usually alternate), and flowers with parts in fives. The fruits are often capsules or drupes.
Families:
The order Linales most commonly includes the following family:
- Linaceae (Flax family)
Some classifications may include other smaller families such as Humiriaceae, but Linaceae is the core and most well-known family within the order.
Economic Importance:
The Linaceae family, specifically the genus Linum (flax), holds significant economic importance. Flax fibers are used in the production of linen, and flax seeds are a source of linseed oil, which has various applications including paints, varnishes, and nutritional supplements.