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In search of flowers in the Northeast

Category: Amaryllidaceae

Amaryllis Family: Amaryllidaceae

These family members are monocots with flower parts in multiples of three. Sepals and petals are almost indistinguishable, forming what are called tepals, and appearing to be six colored petals. Once part of the lily family, taxonomists have given them their own family. They typically have onion-like bulbs and juicy leaves. Flowers or flower clusters emerge from a bract, or modified leaf, that wraps around the buds. Family members include amaryllis, snowdrop, narcissus, daffodil, chive, garlic, and leek.