Gesneriaceae
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Gesneriaceae is a family of flowering plant consisting of c. 146 genera and c. 2400 species, mostly in the Old World tropics but also many in the New World tropics as well, with a few extending to temperate areas. Most species are herbs or subshrubs, and a few are trees.
The most familiar members of the family to gardeners are the African Violets in the genus Saintpaulia.
Other genera in the family have become popular as houseplants. These include:
- Aeschynanthus
- Achimenes (aka Cupid's Bower or Hot Water Plant)
- Episcia (aka flame violet)
- Columnea (aka Flying Goldfish Plant)
- Nematanthus (aka Goldfish Plant)
- Streptocarpus (aka Cape Primrose)
- Smithiantha (aka Temple Bells)
- Alloplectus
- Nautilocalyx
- Besleria
Gesneriads are divided culturally into three groups depending on their root structure: fibrous, rhizomatous and tuberous.Template:Plant-stub