apocynaceae

noun

Meaning

A large botanical family of flowering plants, often called the dogbane family, characterized by milky latex, simple opposite leaves, and complex flowers.

Examples

  • Many species within the Apocynaceae are cultivated for their ornamental value in tropical gardens.
  • Botanists have identified several medicinal alkaloids produced by plants belonging to the Apocynaceae.

Synonyms: dogbane family