Begoniaceae (begonias)

Two genera and about 1401 species. All the species belong to the genus Begonia except for one, Hillebrandia sandwicensis, which is not encountered in southern Africa. Most of the Begonia species are native to tropical America and Asia but the genus is also found in Africa; 13 species are native to southern Africa, and an additional 21 species and two hybrids cultivated in the region.

Coriariaceae

One genus, Coriaria, with a scattered native distribution round the world but not including Africa south of the Sahara. Coriaria myrtifolia (Redoul) is native to southwestern Europe and is cultivated in southern Africa.

Corynocarpaceae

One genus, Corynocarpus, native from New Guinea to New Zealand. Corynocarpus laevigatus (Karaka, New Zealand laurel) is cultivated in southern Africa.

Cucurbitaceae (pumpkin and melon family)

There are about 118 genera and 845 species of Cucurbitaceae worldwide, with 17 genera and 91 species native to southern Africa, a further two genera and three species that are naturalised, and a further six genera and 16 species that are cultivated in the region. Some well known vegetables fall in this family such as Watermelon, Hubbard Squash, Butternut, Pumpkin, sweet melons and Cucumber.