Characteristics of the Family
- Habitat: Found in temperate regions of North and South America, as well as in some parts of Africa and Australia. They often thrive in moist, shady areas such as woodlands, meadows, and stream banks.
2. Succulent Leaves: Simple, alternate or opposite leaves are fleshy and retain water.
3. Flowers: Bisexual, radially symmetrical flowers. Usually small with five petals and two sepals.
4. Fruits & Seeds: Small, capsule-like fruits that contain the seeds. Seeds have oil-filled appendage used as food by ants.
5. Edibility: Some species, such as Claytonia perfoliata (miner’s lettuce), are edible and have a mild flavor. Miner’s lettuce, in particular, is known for its high content of vitamin C and other nutrients.