Amentiferae -

: The group is "artificial" because catkin-bearing evolved convergently. For instance, Salicaceae is now known to be unrelated to the "core" amentiferous plants and is placed in the order Malpighiales.

The term was most influential in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly under the systems of botanists like Eichler. It typically included: : Birches and alders. Fagaceae : Oaks, beeches, and chestnuts. Juglandaceae : Walnuts and hickories. Salicaceae : Willows and poplars. Casuarinaceae : Beefwoods or she-oaks. Myricaceae : Bog myrtles. Key Biological Characteristics amentiferae

: Fossil evidence indicates that recognizable members of this group emerged primarily in the Late Cretaceous period. Paleobotanical Significance Fossil forms of Amentiferae | Brittonia - Springer Nature : The group is "artificial" because catkin-bearing evolved

: Almost exclusively woody plants, ranging from small shrubs to massive forest trees. Modern Scientific Status It typically included: : Birches and alders

: Male flowers (and sometimes female) are borne in catkins —tassel-like, often pendulous spikes of reduced flowers.