Distributed over all continents. Order Asparaginales Family Alliaceae 500 species, all of which are herbs forming subterranean bulbs. A huge family with 20000 species, most of which grow in the tropics. The ginger family contains several important medical plants. 1500 species, typically tropical perennials, often with large rhizomes.
Essential oils are common, consisting both of terpenoids and phenylpropanoids.
A large subclass of 15000 species. The endosperms contains much starch, and consequently many species are cultivated for cereals. 8000 species found all over the world. Family Pandanaceae A paleotropic family of 800 trees and shrubs.