Leaves opposite or whorled, simple and entire, stipules united and large as leaf blades
Flowers usually small, bisexual, actinomorphic, sometimes slightly zygomorphic, infls. cymose, solitary to capitate
Fruit a capsule, berry or drupe, schizocarp
450 genera, 6500 species mostly subtropical and tropical
Common genera:
Hedyotis - Bluets
Gardenia - ornamental
Caffea - coffee
Galium - Bedstraw
Economic importance: coffee, quinine (Cinchona), Gardenias
Diagnostic characteristics: herbs (in N.A.), large stipules, opposite or whorled leaves. Can be confused with Caprifoliaceae (Honeysuckle family) but Caprifoliaceae do not have stipules
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