Verbena Family (Verbenaceae)

The verbena or vervain family (Verbenaceae) is a diverse group of about 3,000 species of plants, most of which occur in the tropics.

Plants in this family can be herbs, shrubs, trees, or lianas (tropical vines). The leaves are usually simple, arranged alternately on the stem, which is often square-sided. The flowers are small, but often occur in attractive inflorescences.

Some species of trees in the verbena family are extremely valuable for the production of lumber.