Dichapetalaceae

/ˌdɪkæpɪtəˈleɪsi/ noun

Definition

A family of tropical flowering plants, mostly shrubs and small trees, many of which have poisonous seeds and are native to Africa, Madagascar, and Asia.

Etymology

From genus 'Dichapetalum' + the botanical family suffix '-aceae.' The name was established in systematic botany during the 19th century based on the genus name.

Kelly Says

Plants in the Dichapetalaceae family produce toxic compounds containing fluoroacetate that can kill livestock and predators, yet African traditional healers use them medicinally in precise doses—a dangerous botanical tightrope.

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