Poaceae

English: Grass family
Dutch: Grassenfamilie

The Poaceae is one of the largest plant families, comprising about 780 genera and 12,000 species. They are distributed worldwide and dominate many ecosystems, forming the basis of grasslands, meadows, and prairies. Grasses are also economically crucial as cereals and forage crops.

Key Identifying Features

• Leaves: Linear, parallel-veined, with a sheath wrapping around the stem
• Stems: Usually hollow and cylindrical with solid nodes (joints)
• Flowers: Tiny, wind-pollinated, arranged in spikelets
• Fruits: Grain (caryopsis) with seed fused to fruit wall

Parent: Plantae