Introduction to Cucurbitales

Abstract

Recognition of the close relationship among the core families of Cucurbitales (Datiscaceae incl. Tetramelaceae, Begoniaceae, and Cucurbitaceae) dates back to the 19th century, although in the more recent pre-molecular era these families usually have been included in more comprehensive groupings named Violales or Parietales (for more details, see Matthews and Endress 2004, and Zhang et al. 2006).