Rose Family: Rosaceae

This family distinguishes itself with flower parts typically in multiples of five – five sepals, five petals, and at least five stamens. There may be several pistils or compound pistils that give the flower center a fuzzy look.  Leaves are generally oval in shape with serrated edges. This is a large family with several sub-families that include roses (of course), raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, quince, and many fruit trees including apple, plum, peach, apricot, nectarine, and almond. And, like the rose, we find many members in our gardens like lady’s mantle and bride’s feathers.