COMMELINIDAE

subclass of herbaceous or sometimes woody monocotyledonous flowering plants. The subclass consists of 7 orders together containing 16 families and about 15,000 species. The majority of Commelinidae species are found in the order Cyperales, which comprises the families Poaceae (grasses) and Cyperaceae (sedges). The flowers of Commelinidae species may be either perfect or unisexual; they are pollinated by wind or insects, or they may be adapted to self-pollination. The stamens generally number three or six, or are present in multiples of three, and are often numerous. The perianth is organized in multiples of three, or it may be reduced to bristles or chaff to the point of absence. The two to four carpels are united to form a compound superior ovary.