Family Poaceae is a group of flowering plants commonly known as grasses. Synonyms for this family include Gramineae, which is the older name for the family. Another synonym is the grass family, which accurately describes the group of plants. This family includes some of the most important plants for human consumption, such as wheat, corn, and rice. One other synonym for Family Poaceae is the cereal family, as many of the plants in this family are used to make breakfast cereals. Regardless of the name used, these plants are a vital component of many ecosystems and have significant economic importance.