Overview
Gesneriaceae is a family of flowering plants that consist of a diverse group of about 3,500 species spread across more than 150 genera. It is distributed throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, with the majority of its species found in Asia and South America. This family includes many popular ornamental plants such as African violets, gloxinias, and lipstick plants.
Taxonomy
The Gesneriaceae family belongs to the order Lamiales, which is a clade in the asterid group of eudicots. It was named after the Swiss botanist Conrad Gesner, who was known for his contributions to the field of natural history in the 16th century. The family has undergone several revisions in the past few years due to new information arising from molecular studies. As a result of these revisions, some genera that were previously included in the family, such as Streptocarpus and Saintpaulia, have been moved to separate families.
Characteristics
Gesneriaceae species have some unique characteristics that help distinguish them from other families. One of the most striking features is the specialized pollen transfer mechanism, which involves the development of a stamen fusion that forms a unique structure called the staminal crown. This structure allows for pollen to be deposited directly onto pollinators, which increases the efficiency of pollination. Some species within the family also have specialized leaves, such as those found in epiphytic species, which are flattened and have a water-retaining groove on the top of the leaf blade. Additionally, the family includes many species that have evolved to grow under low light conditions, which is a result of their adaptation to their natural forest habitats.
Distribution
The Gesneriaceae family is widely distributed across many parts of the world. They are found in the Old World and in the New World. The family comprises approximately 152 genera and over 3200 species, making it one of the ten largest families of flowering plants. The Gesneriaceae family can be found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and Oceania. They are found in both temperate and tropical forests, rocky cliffs, and streamsides.
Habitat
Plants from the Gesneriaceae family are adapted to various ecological habitats. They typically grow in areas with a high level of humidity and rainfall. The family is primarily composed of herbaceous plants, but some species are woody climbers or epiphytes. They prefer soils that are moist but well-drained, and many species grow in soils rich in organic matter. The family is well adapted to living in different altitudes, growing from sea level up to high elevations.
Ecological preferences and adaptations
The Gesneriaceae family exhibits several ecological adaptations, such as epiphytism and lithophytism. Epiphytic species are found growing on other plants, often utilizing their host’s structure and nutrients. Lithophytic species grow on rocks and other hard surfaces and can thrive in challenging environments with little access to soil or water. The family also has a high diversity of pollination systems, with many species relying on insects, hummingbirds, or even bats for pollination. Additionally, some species have evolved fleshy, brightly colored fruits or tuberous roots as a means of storing energy and nutrients during periods of drought.
Introduction
The Gesneriaceae family is a diverse group of flowering plants, consisting of more than 3,500 species worldwide. They are mainly found in tropical and subtropical regions, with their center of diversity in South America and Southeast Asia. Members of this family exhibit a wide range of morphological variation, but they share several key anatomical features and adaptations.Morphology and Anatomy
Most Gesneriaceae plants are herbaceous, but some species are woody shrubs or trees. They typically have simple, alternate leaves that are often arranged in an opposite pattern. The leaves can be either evergreen or deciduous and vary greatly in size, texture, and shape. One of the key anatomical features of Gesneriaceae plants is the presence of glandular hairs on their leaves and stems. These structures are used for defense against herbivores and to attract pollinators. Additionally, they often have specialized water-storing structures like succulent leaves or tubers, which allow them to survive in dry or seasonally dry habitats.Flower Structures
The flowers of Gesneriaceae plants are complex and showy, with a variety of shapes and colors. They are usually borne in clusters and have a bilateral symmetry. The flowers have five petals, arranged in a tube-like corolla with a distinct upper and lower lip. The upper lip is often reflexed, while the lower lip may have a prominent, projecting spur. The stamens are typically attached to the lower part of the corolla and may be covered by the upper lip. The ovary is positioned above the attachment of stamens and has a single style with a stigma that is often lobed or fused.Distinctive Characteristics
The Gesneriaceae family includes a wide range of variation in leaf shapes, flower structures, and other distinctive characteristics. For example, the leaves of some members are broad and flat, while others are thin and needle-like. Some plants have a trailing growth habit, while others form compact, bushy shapes. The flowers also show considerable variation in size and shape. Some members have large, showy blossoms with brightly colored petals, while others have small, inconspicuous flowers. Some members of this family have evolved specialized pollination mechanisms, such as explosive dehiscence of the flower or intricate coevolution with specific pollinators. In summary, the Gesneriaceae family is a diverse group of flowering plants with a wide range of morphological and anatomical adaptations. They are characterized by glandular hairs and specialized water-storing structures. Their flowers are complex and showy with a bilateral symmetry, and they exhibit a wide range of leaf shapes, flower structures, and other distinctive characteristics.Reproductive Strategies of Gesneriaceae Plants
Plants in the Gesneriaceae family have developed diverse reproductive strategies to ensure the successful propagation of their species. They typically exhibit a mixed mating system, which means they can reproduce both by self-fertilization and cross-fertilization.
Many species in this family also employ vegetative reproduction, where new plants arise from vegetative organs such as roots, stems, or leaves. This strategy allows plants to rapidly colonize new habitats or re-establish themselves after disturbances.
Mechanisms of Reproduction in Gesneriaceae
Gesneriaceae plants have specialized reproductive organs that enable pollination and fertilization. The stamens produce pollen, which is deposited on the receptive surface of the pistil. In some species, the style is long and protruding, while in others, it is short and hidden within the flower's corolla.
Some Gesneriaceae plants have evolved specialized pollination mechanisms, such as shooting pollen onto visiting pollinators, trapping them briefly, or using scent and color to attract specific pollinators.
Flowering Patterns and Pollination Strategies
Gesneriaceae plants exhibit a variety of flowering patterns, with some producing flowers continuously throughout the year, while others flower seasonally. The flowers can also differ in size, shape, and color, depending on the species' pollination strategy.
Many Gesneriaceae plants rely on insects such as bees, butterflies, and moths for pollination. Some species, like the African violet, have co-evolved with specific pollinators, ensuring efficient pollination. Others, like the gesneriad Haberlea rhodopensis, have evolved a unique mechanism called resurrection to survive extreme droughts, using raindrops to dislodge pollen and trigger fertilization.
Seed Dispersal Methods and Adaptations
After fertilization, Gesneriaceae plants produce capsules or berries that contain their seeds. Some species have developed specialized adaptations for seed dispersal, such as explosive dehiscence, where the capsule bursts open, scattering the seeds. Others rely on animals like birds and rodents to disperse their seeds.
Gesneriaceae plants also have innovative mechanisms for seed germination, such as delayed germination, where seeds remain dormant for extended periods until favorable conditions arise. This strategy allows the plant to increase its chances of survival and establishment in unpredictable environments.
Economic Importance of Gesneriaceae Family
The Gesneriaceae family, also known as the African violet family, is essential for various economic purposes. This family of plants has extensive medicinal, culinary, and horticultural uses.
From time immemorial, many species within the Gesneriaceae family have been used as traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. For instance, some species are used to treat coughs, fever, pancreatitis, and hepatitis, among other conditions. Additionally, certain compounds isolated from the plants of this family have antimicrobial properties.
Furthermore, some species within the Gesneriaceae family are edible and used in traditional dishes. The leaves of the African violet are sometimes used in salads, and the flowers can be candied to create a sweet treat. Some species are used as a source of wild honey.
The Gesneriaceae family is also highly cultivated for ornamental purposes. Many species are grown as houseplants due to their colorful and attractive flowers. Some of the popular species within this family include Streptocarpus and Saintpaulia.
Ecological Importance of Gesneriaceae Family
The Gesneriaceae family plays a crucial ecological role in many ecosystems. The plants within this family are an essential food source for a wide range of insects and animals. Some species within this family are only pollinated by specific bees and other insects, which highlights the ecological importance of the family in maintaining natural diversity.
Furthermore, many species of Gesneriaceae are shade-loving, which means they thrive under the canopy of trees and are essential in the regeneration of forest ecosystems. Therefore, these plants contribute significantly to the growth and stability of forests.
Conservation Status and Ongoing Efforts for Conservation of Gesneriaceae Family
Several species within the Gesneriaceae family are currently threatened due to habitat destruction, over-harvesting for medicinal and ornamental purposes, and other forms of human exploitation. For example, Haberlea rhodopensis, a species known for its medicinal properties, is currently listed as vulnerable.
Fortunately, many conservation efforts are underway to conserve the species within this family. These efforts range from habitat restoration to cultivation and propagation programs. One notable example includes the establishment of several botanic gardens that focus solely on cultivating and conserving species within the family.
Additionally, awareness campaigns are underway to sensitize people on the importance of conserving these plants and their habitats. Lastly, many governments have put in place legal frameworks to protect threatened species within the Gesneriaceae family and their habitat.
Featured plants from the Gesneriaceae family
More plants from the Gesneriaceae family
- Acanthonema diandrum (Engl.) B.L.Burtt
- Acanthonema strigosum Hook.f.
- Alloplectus ambiguus Urban - >>columnea Ambigua
- Carolofritschia diandra Engl.
- Charadrophila capensis Marloth
- Chrysothemis Dcne. - Chrysothemis
- Chrysothemis pulchella (Donn ex Sims) Dcne.
- Columnea ambigua (Urban) Morley - Tibey De Cresta
- Columnea scandens L. - Tibey Parasito
- Columnea scandens L. var. tulae (Urban) Wiehler - Tibey Parasito
- Columnea tulae Urban - >>columnea Scandens Var. Tulae
- Conandron ramondioides
- Crantzia ambigua (Urban) Britt. - >>columnea Ambigua
- Cyrtandra adpressipilosa St. John - >>cyrtandra Laxiflora
- Cyrtandra arcuata St. John - >>cyrtandra Kaalae
- Cyrtandra arguta (Gray) C.B. Clarke - >>cyrtandra Waihoiensis
- Cyrtandra baccifera C.B. Clarke - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra begoniifolia Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra biserrata Hbd. - Molokai Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra brevicalyx (Hbd.) St. John - >>cyrtandra Paludosa Var. Paludosa
- Cyrtandra brevicornuta St. John - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra bryanii St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra calpidicarpa (Rock) St. John & Storey - Valley Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra calycoschiza (St. John & Storey) St. John - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra campaniformis St. John - >>cyrtandra Laxiflora
- Cyrtandra charadraia St. John - >>cyrtandra Kalihii
- Cyrtandra chartacea St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Forbesii
- Cyrtandra collarifera St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Kalihii
- Cyrtandra confertiflora (Wawra) C.B. Clarke - Lava Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra confertiflora (Wawra) C.B. Clarke var. confertiflora - Lava Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra confertiflora (Wawra) C.B. Clarke var. obovata (Wawra) C.B. Clarke - Lava Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra cordifolia Gaud. - Heartleaf Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra cordifolia Gaud. var. brevipilita St. John - >>cyrtandra Cordifolia
- Cyrtandra cordifolia Gaud. var. gynoglabra Rock - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra cornuta St. John - >>cyrtandra Calpidicarpa
- Cyrtandra crenata St. John & Storey - Kahana Valley Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra cyaneoides Rock - Mapele
- Cyrtandra degenerans (Wawra) Heller - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra dentata St. John & Storey - Mountain Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra ellipticifolia St. John - >>cyrtandra Rockii
- Cyrtandra elliptisepala St. John - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra elstonii Hochr. - >>cyrtandra Kauaiensis
- Cyrtandra filipes Hbd. - Gulch Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra fosbergii St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Atomigyna
- Cyrtandra frederickii St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Dentata
- Cyrtandra fusiformis St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra garberi St. John - >>cyrtandra Paludosa Var. Paludosa
- Cyrtandra garnotiana Gaud. - Hahala
- Cyrtandra gayana Heller - >>cyrtandra Longifolia
- Cyrtandra gayana Heller var. macrocarpa Skottsberg - >>cyrtandra Longifolia
- Cyrtandra giffardii Rock - Forest Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra glauca Drake - >>cyrtandra Paludosa Var. Paludosa
- Cyrtandra gracilis Hbd. ex C.B. Clarke - Palolo Valley Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra grandiflora Gaud. - Largeflower Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra grayana Hbd. - Pacific Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra grayana Hbd. var. lanaiensis Rock - >>cyrtandra Grayana
- Cyrtandra grayana Hbd. var. latifolia Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Grayana
- Cyrtandra grayana Hbd. var. linearifolia Rock - >>cyrtandra Grayana
- Cyrtandra grayana Hbd. var. nervosa Rock - >>cyrtandra Grayana
- Cyrtandra grayi C.B. Clarke - Gray's Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra grossecrenata St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Hillebrandii
- Cyrtandra halawensis Rock - Toothleaf Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra hashimotoi Rock - Maui Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra hawaiensis C.B. Clarke - Hawai'i Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra hematos St. John - Singleflower Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra hii Forbes - >>cyrtandra Pickeringii
- Cyrtandra hirsutula St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra hobdyi St. John - >>cyrtandra Kauaiensis
- Cyrtandra hyperdasa St. John - >>cyrtandra Paludosa Var. Paludosa
- Cyrtandra infrapallida St. John - >>cyrtandra Laxiflora
- Cyrtandra infundibuliformis St. John - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra intonsa St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Garnotiana
- Cyrtandra intrapilosa St. John - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra intravillosa St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra J.R. & G. Forst. - Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra kahukuensis St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Rockii
- Cyrtandra kailuaensis St. John - >>cyrtandra Laxiflora
- Cyrtandra kalihii Wawra - Koolau Range Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra kaluanuiensis St. John - >>cyrtandra Forbesii
- Cyrtandra kamooloaensis St. John - Kamo'oloa Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra kaneoheensis St. John - >>cyrtandra Forbesii
- Cyrtandra kauaiensis Wawra - Ulunahele
- Cyrtandra kaulantha St. John & Storey - Waikane Valley Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra kealiae Wawra - Wahiawa Mountain Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra knudsenii Rock - >>cyrtandra Kauaiensis
- Cyrtandra kohalae Rock - Kohala Mountain Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra koolauensis St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Hosakae
- Cyrtandra latebrosa Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra latebrosa Hbd. var. subglabra Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra laxiflora Mann - Oahu Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra lessoniana Gaud. - Lesson's Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra lessoniana Gaud. var. angustifolia Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra lessoniana Gaud. var. intrapubens St. John - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra lessoniana Gaud. var. koolauloaensis St. John - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra leucocalyx St. John - >>cyrtandra Propinqua
- Cyrtandra limahuliensis St. John - Limahuli Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra limosiflora Rock - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra linearis St. John - >>cyrtandra Gracilis
- Cyrtandra longicalyx St. John - >>cyrtandra Laxiflora
- Cyrtandra longifolia (Wawra) Hbd. ex C.B. Clarke - Longleaf Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra longifolia (Wawra) Hbd. ex C.B. Clarke var. arborescens (Wawra) C.B. Clarke - >>cyrtandra Longifolia
- Cyrtandra longifolia (Wawra) Hbd. ex C.B. Clarke var. degenerans (Wawra) C.B. Clarke - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra longifolia (Wawra) Hbd. ex C.B. Clarke var. parallela C.B. Clarke - >>cyrtandra Longifolia
- Cyrtandra longifolia (Wawra) Hbd. ex C.B. Clarke var. wahiawae Rock - >>cyrtandra Longifolia
- Cyrtandra longiloba St. John - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra lydgatei Hbd. - Lydgate's Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra lysiosepala (Gray) C.B. Clarke - Oppositeleaf Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra lysiosepala (Gray) C.B. Clarke var. fauriei (Levl.) Rock - >>cyrtandra Grayi
- Cyrtandra lysiosepala (Gray) C.B. Clarke var. grayi (C.B. Clarke) Rock - >>cyrtandra Grayi
- Cyrtandra lysiosepala (Gray) C.B. Clarke var. haleakalensis Rock - >>cyrtandra Hashimotoi
- Cyrtandra lysiosepala (Gray) C.B. Clarke var. hawaiiensis Skottsberg - >>cyrtandra Lysiosepala
- Cyrtandra lysiosepala (Gray) C.B. Clarke var. latifolia Rock - >>cyrtandra Hashimotoi
- Cyrtandra lysiosepala (Gray) C.B. Clarke var. pilosa Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Hashimotoi
- Cyrtandra macraei Gray - Upland Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra macrocalyx Hbd. - Largecalyx Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra malacophylla C.B. Clarke var. erosa Rock - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra mauiensis Rock - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra mauiensis Rock var. truncata Rock - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra megastigmata St. John - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra menziesii Hook. & Arn. - Ha'i Wale
- Cyrtandra montis-loa Rock - >>cyrtandra Lysiosepala
- Cyrtandra munroi Forbes - Lanaihale Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra niuensis St. John - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra nubincolens St. John - >>cyrtandra Paludosa Var. Paludosa
- Cyrtandra oahuensis Levl. - >>cyrtandra Waiolani
- Cyrtandra oblanceolata St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra oenobarba Mann - Shaggystem Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra oenobarba Mann var. herbacea (Wawra) Heller - >>cyrtandra Oenobarba
- Cyrtandra oenobarba Mann var. petiolaris Wawra - >>cyrtandra Oenobarba
- Cyrtandra olivacea St. John - >>cyrtandra Hosakae
- Cyrtandra oliveri Rock - >>cyrtandra Hillebrandii
- Cyrtandra olona Forbes - Kauai Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra oulophylla St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Carinata
- Cyrtandra oxybapha W.L. Wagner & Herbst - Pohakea Gulch Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra paloloensis St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Ferruginosa
- Cyrtandra paludosa Gaud. - Kanawao Ke'oke'o
- Cyrtandra paludosa Gaud. var. haupuensis Rock - >>cyrtandra Longifolia
- Cyrtandra paludosa Gaud. var. integrifolia Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Longifolia
- Cyrtandra paludosa Gaud. var. irrostrata St. John - >>cyrtandra Paludosa Var. Paludosa
- Cyrtandra paludosa Gaud. var. microcarpa Wawra - Kanawao Ke'oke'o
- Cyrtandra paludosa Gaud. var. paludosa - Kanawao Ke'oke'o
- Cyrtandra paludosa Gaud. var. subherbacea Wawra - >>cyrtandra Paludosa Var. Paludosa
- Cyrtandra partita St. John - >>cyrtandra Basipartita
- Cyrtandra pearsallii St. John - >>cyrtandra Kipapaensis
- Cyrtandra perstaminodica St. John - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra pickeringii Gray - Pickering's Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra pickeringii Gray var. waiheae Rock - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra piligyna St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Honolulensis
- Cyrtandra platyphylla Gray
- Cyrtandra platyphylla Gray var. brevipes Skottsberg - >>cyrtandra Waihoiensis
- Cyrtandra platyphylla Gray var. hiloensis Rock - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra platyphylla Gray var. membranacea Rock - >>cyrtandra Waihoiensis
- Cyrtandra platyphylla Gray var. parviflora Rock - >>cyrtandra Cladantha
- Cyrtandra platyphylla Gray var. robusta Rock - >>cyrtandra Platyphylla
- Cyrtandra platyphylla Gray var. stylopubens Rock - >>cyrtandra Waihoiensis
- Cyrtandra plurifolia St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Rockii
- Cyrtandra poamohoensis St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Carinata
- Cyrtandra polyantha C.B. Clarke - Niu Valley Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra procera Hbd. - Bog Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra propinqua Forbes - Arrowleaf Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra pruinosa St. John & Storey - Frosted Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra pupukeaensis St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Rockii
- Cyrtandra reflexa St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Opaeulae
- Cyrtandra rivularis St. John & Storey - River Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra rotata St. John - >>cyrtandra Grayi
- Cyrtandra sandwicensis (Levl.) St. John & Storey - Hairy Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra sessilis St. John & Storey - Windyridge Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra skottsbergii St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Crassifolia
- Cyrtandra spathulata St. John - Spoonleaf Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra stupantha St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Laxiflora
- Cyrtandra subcordata St. John - >>cyrtandra Crassifolia
- Cyrtandra suberecta St. John - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra subumbellata (Hbd.) St. John & Storey - Parasol Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra subumbellata (Hbd.) St. John & Storey var. intonsa St. John - >>cyrtandra Subumbellata
- Cyrtandra ternata St. John - >>cyrtandra Atomigyna
- Cyrtandra tintinnabula Rock - Laupahoehoe Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra triflora Gaud. - >>cyrtandra Garnotiana
- Cyrtandra tristis Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Kalihii
- Cyrtandra vanioti Levl. - >>cyrtandra Garnotiana
- Cyrtandra villicalyx St. John & Storey var. pubentigyna St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Villicalyx
- Cyrtandra villosa St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Rivularis
- Cyrtandra villosiflora St. John - >>cyrtandra Crassifolia
- Cyrtandra viridiflora St. John & Storey - Greenleaf Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra waianaeensis St. John & Storey - Waianaeuka Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra waianuensis Rock - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra wainihaensis Levl. - >>cyrtandra Kauaiensis
- Cyrtandra waiolani Wawra - Fuzzyflower Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra waiolani Wawra var. capitata Hbd. - >>cyrtandra Waiolani
- Cyrtandra waiomaoensis St. John - >>cyrtandra Hawaiensis
- Cyrtandra wawrae C.B. Clarke - Rockface Cyrtandra
- Cyrtandra wilderi St. John & Storey - >>cyrtandra Lessoniana
- Cyrtandra ×alata St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×alnea St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×ambigua (Hbd.) St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×atomigyna St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×axilliflora St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×basipartita St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×caudatisepala St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×caulescens Rock (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×christophersenii St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×cladantha Skottsberg (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×conradtii Rock (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×crassifolia (Hbd.) Rock (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×crassior St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×cupuliformis St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×ferrocolorata St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×ferruginosa St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey
- Cyrtandra ×georgiana Forbes (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×hillebrandii Oliver
- Cyrtandra ×honolulensis Wawra (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×hosakae St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×kaalae St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×kahanaensis St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×kipahuluensis St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×kipapaensis St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×laevis St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×malacophylla C.B. Clarke (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×mannii St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×nutans St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×opaeulae St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×pubens St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×ramosissima Rock (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×rockii St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×scabrella C.B. Clarke (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×subintegra St. John (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×turbiniformis St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×umbraculiflora Rock (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×villicalyx St. John & Storey (pro sp.)
- Cyrtandra ×waihoiensis St. John - Sharp-tooth Cyrtandra
- Didymocarpus bequaertii De Wild.
- Didymocarpus kamerunensis Engl.
- Didymocarpus mannii (C.B.Clarke) Wonisch
- Didymocarpus rexii Bowie ex Hook.
- Didymocarpus stolzii Engl.
- Didymocarpus stolzii Engl. var. minor Mansf.
- Duchartrea sintenisii (Urban) Britt. - >>gesneria Viridiflora Ssp. Sintenisii
- Episcia Mart. - Episcia
- Epithema tenue C.B.Clarke
- Gesneria citrina Urban - Yerba Puerto Rico De Cueva
- Gesneria cuneifolia (DC.) Fritsch - Yerba Parrera
- Gesneria L. - Gesneria
- Gesneria pauciflora Urban - Yerba Maricao De Cueva
- Gesneria pedunculosa (DC.) Fritsch - Arbol De Navidad
- Gesneria reticulata (Griseb.) Urban - Yerba Neto Hoja De Cueva
- Gesneria sintenisii Urban - >>gesneria Viridiflora Ssp. Sintenisii
- Gesneria viridiflora (Dcne.) Kuntze - Grassflower
- Gesneria viridiflora (Dcne.) Kuntze ssp. sintenisii (Urban) L. Skog - Grassflower
- Gloxinia perennis (L.) Druce - Canterbury Bells
- Kohleria eriantha (Benth.) Hanst.
- Kohleria Regel - Kohleria
- Linnaeopsis alba (E.A.Bruce) B.L.Burtt subsp. alba
- Linnaeopsis alba (E.A.Bruce) B.L.Burtt subsp. edwardsii Weigend
- Linnaeopsis gracilis E.A.Bruce
- Linnaeopsis heckmanniana Engl. subsp. gracilis (E.A.Bruce) Weigend
- Linnaeopsis heckmanniana Engl. subsp. heckmanniana
- Linnaeopsis subscandens B.L.Burtt
- Nodonema lineatum B.L.Burtt
- Pentaraphia albiflora Dcne. - >>gesneria Pedunculosa
- Petrocosmea ionantha (H.Wendl.) Rodigas
- Rehmannia glutinosa - Chinese Foxglove
- Rhytidophyllum auriculatum Hook. - Tibey-amarillo
- Rhytidophyllum Mart. - Tibey-amarillo
- Roettlera kamerunensis (Engl.) Fritsch
- Roettlera mannii (C.B.Clarke) Fritsch
- Saintpaulia alba E.A.Bruce
- Saintpaulia amaniensis E.Roberts
- Saintpaulia brevipilosa B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia confusa B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia difficilis B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia diplotricha B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia goetzeana Engl.
- Saintpaulia grandifolia B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia grotei Engl.
- Saintpaulia inconspicua B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia intermedia B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia ionantha H.Wendl.
- Saintpaulia kewensis C.B.Clarke
- Saintpaulia magungensis E.Roberts var. magungensis
- Saintpaulia magungensis E.Roberts var. minima B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia magungensis E.Roberts var. occidentalis B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia nitida B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia orbicularis B.L.Burtt var. orbicularis
- Saintpaulia orbicularis B.L.Burtt var. purpurea B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia pendula B.L.Burtt var. kizarae B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia pendula B.L.Burtt var. pendula
- Saintpaulia pusilla Engl.
- Saintpaulia rupicola B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia shumensis B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia teitensis B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia tongwensis B.L.Burtt
- Saintpaulia velutina B.L.Burtt
- Schizoboea kamerunensis (Engl.) B.L.Burtt
- Sinningia Nees - Sinningia
- Sinningia speciosa (G. Lodd.) Hiern - Brazilian Gloxinia
- Streptocarpus albiflorus Engl.
- Streptocarpus arcuatus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus armitagei Baker f. & S.Moore
- Streptocarpus atroviolaceus Engl.
- Streptocarpus balsaminoides Engl.
- Streptocarpus balsaminoides Engl. var. tenuifolius Engl.
- Streptocarpus bambuseti Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus baudertii L.L.Britten
- Streptocarpus benguellensis Welw. ex C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus bequaertii De Wild.
- Streptocarpus bindseili Eb.Fisch.
- Streptocarpus bolusii C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus brachynema Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus breviflos (C.B.Clarke) C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus buchananii C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus bullatus Mansf.
- Streptocarpus burttianus Pócs
- Streptocarpus burundianus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus caeruleus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus caeruleus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt subsp. longiflorus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus candidus Hilliard
- Streptocarpus caulescens Vatke var. caulescens
- Streptocarpus caulescens Vatke var. ovatus C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus caulescens Vatke var. pallescens
- Streptocarpus chariensis A.Chev.
- Streptocarpus compressus B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus comptonii Mansf.
- Streptocarpus confusus Hilliard subsp. confusus
- Streptocarpus confusus Hilliard subsp. lebomboensis Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus cooksonii B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus cooperi C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus cyanandrus B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus cyaneus auct.
- Streptocarpus cyaneus S.Moore subsp. cyaneus
- Streptocarpus cyaneus S.Moore subsp. longi-tommii Weigend & T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus cyaneus S.Moore subsp. nigridens Weigend & T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus cyaneus S.Moore subsp. polackii (B.L.Burtt) Weigend & T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus daviesii N.E.Br. ex C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus davyi S.Moore
- Streptocarpus decipiens Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus denticulatus Turrill
- Streptocarpus dolichanthus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus dunnii Hook.f.
- Streptocarpus elongatus Engl.
- Streptocarpus elongatus Engl. var. glabrescens Engl.
- Streptocarpus erubescens Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus euanthus Mansf.
- Streptocarpus exsertus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus eylesii S.Moore subsp. brevistylus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus eylesii S.Moore subsp. eylesii
- Streptocarpus eylesii S.Moore subsp. silvicola Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus fanniniae Harv. ex C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus fanniniae Harv. ex C.B.Clarke var. minor C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus fasciatus T.J.Edwards & Kunhardt
- Streptocarpus fenestra-dei Weigend & T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus floribundus Weigend & T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus formosus (Hilliard & B.L.Burtt) T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus galpinii Hook.f.
- Streptocarpus gardenii Hook.
- Streptocarpus glandulosissimus Engl.
- Streptocarpus glandulosissimus Engl. var. longiflorus Mansf.
- Streptocarpus goetzei Engl.
- Streptocarpus gonjaensis Engl.
- Streptocarpus gracilis B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus grandis N.E.Br. subsp. grandis
- Streptocarpus grandis N.E.Br. subsp. septentrionalis Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus haygarthii N.E.Br. ex C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus hilburtianus T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus hirsutissimus Bruce
- Streptocarpus hirticapsa B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus hirtinervis C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus holstii Engl.
- Streptocarpus huamboensis Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus inflatus B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus insignis B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus johannis L.L.Britten
- Streptocarpus junodii P.Beauv.
- Streptocarpus katangensis De Wild. & T.Durand
- Streptocarpus kentaniensis L.L.Britten & Story
- Streptocarpus kerstingii Engl.
- Streptocarpus kimbozanus B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus kirkii Hook.
- Streptocarpus kungwensis Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus kunhardtii T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus lagoensis C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus latens Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus ledermannii Engl.
- Streptocarpus leptopus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus lilacinus Engl.
- Streptocarpus liliputana D.U.Bellstedt & T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus Lindl. - Cape Primrose
- Streptocarpus longiflorus (Hilliard & B.L.Burtt) T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus lujai De Wild.
- Streptocarpus luteus C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus mahonii Hook.
- Streptocarpus makabengensis Hilliard
- Streptocarpus masisiensis De Wild.
- Streptocarpus meyeri B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus michelmorei B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus micranthus C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus milanjianus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus milbraedii Engl.
- Streptocarpus minutiflorus Mansf.
- Streptocarpus modestus L.L.Britten
- Streptocarpus molweniensis Hilliard subsp. eshowicus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus molweniensis Hilliard subsp. molweniensis
- Streptocarpus monophyllus Welw.
- Streptocarpus montanus Oliv.
- Streptocarpus montigena L.L.Britten
- Streptocarpus montis-bingae Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus muddii C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus muscicola Engl.
- Streptocarpus myoporoides Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus nimbicola Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus nobilis C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus occultis Hilliard
- Streptocarpus ovatus (C.B.Clarke) C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus pallidiflorus C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus parensis B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus parviflorus E.Mey. ex C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus parviflorus Hook.f. subsp. parviflorus
- Streptocarpus parviflorus Hook.f. subsp. soutpansbergensis Weigend & T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus paucispiralis Engl.
- Streptocarpus pentherianus Fritsch
- Streptocarpus phaeotrichus B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus pogonites Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus polackii B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus pole-evansii I.Verd.
- Streptocarpus polyanthus Hook. subsp. comptonii (Mansf.) Hilliard
- Streptocarpus polyanthus Hook. subsp. dracomontanus Hilliard
- Streptocarpus polyanthus Hook. subsp. polyanthus
- Streptocarpus polyanthus Hook. subsp. verecundus Hilliard
- Streptocarpus porphyrostachys Hilliard
- Streptocarpus primulifolius Gand.
- Streptocarpus primulifolius Gand. subsp. formosus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus princeps Engl. & Mildbr.
- Streptocarpus prolixus C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus pumilis B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus pusillus Harv. ex C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus rexii (Bowie ex Hook.) Lindl.
- Streptocarpus rexii auct.
- Streptocarpus reynoldsii I.Verd.
- Streptocarpus rhodesianus S.Moore
- Streptocarpus rhodesianus S.Moore var. perlanatus P.A.Duvign.
- Streptocarpus rimicola Story
- Streptocarpus rivularis Engl.
- Streptocarpus roseo-albus Weigend & T.J.Edwards
- Streptocarpus rungwensis Engl.
- Streptocarpus rungwensis Engl. var. latifolius Engl.
- Streptocarpus ruwenzoriensis Baker
- Streptocarpus saundersii auct.
- Streptocarpus saundersii Hook.
- Streptocarpus saundersii Hook. var. breviflos C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus saxorum Engl.
- Streptocarpus schliebenii Mansf.
- Streptocarpus silvaticus Hilliard
- Streptocarpus smithii C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus solenanthus Mansf.
- Streptocarpus stomandrus B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus tchenzemae Gilli
- Streptocarpus thomensis Exell
- Streptocarpus thysanotus Hilliard & B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus trabeculatus Hilliard
- Streptocarpus tubiflos C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus umtaliensis B.L.Burtt
- Streptocarpus vandeleurii Baker f. & S.Moore
- Streptocarpus violascens Engl.
- Streptocarpus violascens Engl. forma nanus Engl.
- Streptocarpus volkensii Engl.
- Streptocarpus wendlandii Spreng.
- Streptocarpus wilmsii Engl.
- Streptocarpus wittei De Wild.
- Streptocarpus woodii C.B.Clarke
- Streptocarpus zimmermanii Engl.
- Trachystigma mannii C.B.Clarke
- Trichantha ambigua (Urban) Wiehler - >>columnea Ambigua