Anatomical studies of Plantago L. leaf in Iran and its taxonomic applications.

Leaf anatomy of ۱۶ Plantago species belonging to nine sections was studied by light microscopy in order to evaluate the most important anatomical features of them and their possible taxonomic implications. The specimens were obtained from FAR and T herbaria or their natural habitats. Basal and lower leaves were fixed in alcohol-glycerin and cross-sections from the middle of leaves were prepared. The samples were stained with methyl blue and carmine and after being mounted in glycerin jelly and photographed by light microscopy. ۱۵ anatomical characters (qualitative and quantative) were selected and measured. The most important characters include main midrib shape, the thickness of epidermis, parenchyma, collenchyma and cuticle; the length of vascular bundles, xylem and pheloem, lamina symmetry, the number of lateral vascular bundles. Our results show that leaf anatomical features provide reliable evidenced for the sections and species taxonomically valuable.

Keywords:

Plantaginaceae , anatomy , Taxonomy , Iran