Apocynaceae

Defining Characteristics

• Milky latex present in most members
• Opposite or whorled simple leaves
• Often showy tubular or salverform flowers with 5 fused petals
• Corona structures common (especially in former Asclepiadaceae members)
• Paired follicle fruits in many genera, releasing seeds with silky hairs
• Pollinia (pollen masses) in milkweed subfamily (Asclepiadoideae)

Notable Genera

• Vinca (periwinkle)
• Nerium (oleander)
• Asclepias (milkweed)
• Catharanthus (Madagascar periwinkle)
• Apocynum (dogbane)
• Plumeria (frangipani)
• Adenium (desert rose)

Notes

Includes the former milkweed family Asclepiadaceae. Catharanthus roseus yields the chemotherapy drugs vincristine and vinblastine. Many species are highly toxic (cardiac glycosides). Milkweeds are critical host plants for monarch butterflies.