Nelumbonaceae (lotus flowers)

Family of water plants with rhizomes, found along the margins of pools in Asia, northern Australia and eastern North America. There is one genus, Nelumbo, with two species. Nelumbo lutea (American Lotus, Water Chinquapin, Yanquapin) is native to North America. Nelumbo nucifera (Sacred Lotus) is native to Asia (Iran to Japan) and northern Australia, and is cultivated in southern Africa.

Platanaceae (Plane tree family)

One genus (Platanus) and 10 species (north temperate regions), none of which are native to southern Africa. However, four species and one hybrid are cultivated in the region. In particular, Platanus x hispanica (London plane) is a common street tree and is also grown in gardens.

Proteaceae (protea family)

Worldwide there are about 80 genera and 1600 species. The highest diversity is in Australia (800+ species), followed by Africa (c 400 species) and then South America (about 90 species). Proteaceae are also native to Madagascar, SE Asia, New Guinea, New Calidonia and New Zealand. A total of 14 genera and 361 species are native to southern Africa, mainly in fynbos. In addition, two genera and six species have become naturalised, and an additional 13 genera and 49 species are cultivated in the region.