Acanthaceae

Introduction to the Acanthaceae Family

The Acanthaceae family is a diverse group of flowering plants comprising over 4,000 species across 250 genera. This family is known for its ornamental, medicinal, and ecological importance. Members of Acanthaceae are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, with some species adapted to Mediterranean climates like Acanthus mollis.

Key Characteristics of Acanthaceae:

• Leaves: Often opposite, simple, and sometimes with spiny margins.
• Flowers: Showy, tubular, or bilabiate (two-lipped), usually in spikes or clusters.
• Fruits: Typically explosive capsules that disperse seeds when mature.
• Ecological Role: Many species attract pollinators, while others are used in traditional medicine.

Notable Genera in Acanthaceae:

• Acanthus (Acanthus mollis, Acanthus spinosus)
• Justicia (Shrimp Plant – Justicia brandegeeana)
• Thunbergia (Black-Eyed Susan Vine – Thunbergia alata)
• Ruellia (Wild Petunia – Ruellia simplex)

Acanthus :  Acanthe -Cabounia

§  Acanthus mollis 

§  Acanthus Platyphyllus 

§  Acanthus spinosus

Asystasia

§  Asystasia gangetica Chinese violet

Avicennia

§  Avicennia marina Grey mangrove

Barleria

§  Barleria Schmittii

Blepharis

§  Blepharis linariifolia 

§  Blepharis edulis

§  Blepharis maderaspatensis 

Ecbolium

§  Ecbolium viride

Justicia

§  Justicia heterocarpa 

§  Justicia hyssopifolia

§   Justicia ladanoides

Ruellia

§  Ruellia patula