Karinarakam (Rutaceae)

These plants are known for their aromatic foliage and usually have glandular dots on their leaves, which contain essential oils. Rutaceae plants exhibit a wide range of growth forms, including trees, shrubs, and herbs.

Leaves: The leaves of Rutaceae plants are typically alternate, meaning they are arranged singly along the stem. They are usually compound with pinnate or trifoliate leaflets, but can also be simple in some species. The leaflets often have serrated margins, and are usually aromatic when crushed due to the presence of essential oils. The leaves are often glossy, and their size and shape can vary widely among different species.

Flowers: The flowers of Rutaceae plants are usually actinomorphic, meaning they are radially symmetrical, and have five sepals and petals. The flowers are usually bisexual, containing both male (stamens) and female (pistil) reproductive organs. They are often fragrant and showy, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds. The flowers are usually arranged in clusters or cymes, and their colors can range from white, yellow, pink, to purple, depending on the species.

Fruit: The fruit of Rutaceae plants is often a specialized type of fruit called a hesperidium, which is a modified berry with a leathery rind and a fleshy interior divided into segments. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, are some of the most well-known examples of Rutaceae fruits. These fruits are rich in vitamin C and are widely cultivated for their culinary and medicinal uses.

Ecology: Rutaceae plants are found in a wide variety of habitats, including tropical rainforests, temperate forests, savannas, and deserts. They are distributed in regions with diverse climates, ranging from frost-free tropical areas to cold temperate regions. Some Rutaceae species are adapted to grow in saline soils or coastal environments. Many Rutaceae plants have evolved unique adaptations to cope with their local environments, such as specialized leaf structures, root systems, and essential oil production.

Economic Importance: Rutaceae plants have significant economic importance due to their culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Citrus fruits are widely consumed around the world and are an important source of vitamins and minerals in human diets. Many Rutaceae species are used in traditional medicine for their therapeutic properties, including as digestive aids, anti-inflammatory agents, and antispasmodics. Rutaceae plants are also popular ornamental plants, with many species cultivated for their attractive flowers, aromatic foliage, and unique growth forms.

In conclusion, Rutaceae plants are a diverse and economically important family of flowering plants known for their aromatic foliage, showy flowers, and specialized fruits. They have a wide distribution across the world and are valued for their culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses.