Abstract
To investigate the taxonomic value of leaf epidermal characters in developing a classification for Ligusticum (Apiaceae), thirty-eight species (including a cultivar) of the genus were examined using both light and scanning electron microscopy. Our results show that the infrageneric classification of Ligusticum based on the characters of involucel bracteoles, mericarps, and pollen grains was not supported as few epidermal characters were relatively constant at section level. Evidence from leaf epidermis, similar to that from molecular and morphological data, supports the separation of Tilingia (i.e. L. ajanense and L. tachiroei) from Ligusticum. Ligusticopsis was found to be indistinguishable from Ligusticum in epidermal characters. Furthermore, results from epidermal analysis, together with that from cytological evidence, fruit morphology as well as molecular phylogenetics suggest that L. delavayi should be transferred out of Ligusticum.
Highlights
The genus Ligusticum L., referred to the family Apiaceae, comprises 60 species widely distributed throughout Eurasia and North America
Our results show that the infrageneric classification of Ligusticum based on the characters of involucel bracteoles, mericarps, and pollen grains was not supported as few epidermal characters were relatively constant at section level
As part of a systemic study of this genus in China, we aim to investigate the epidermal features of 38 Chinese Ligusticum species, assess whether these epidermal features can provide information of taxonomic value and determine whether such information supports a sectional subdivision system in Chinese Ligusticum
Summary
The genus Ligusticum L., referred to the family Apiaceae, comprises 60 species widely distributed throughout Eurasia and North America. 40 species are known from China (of which 35 are being endemic), and most of these are distributed throughout the alpine belt of southwestern China (sub-alpine coniferous forests and forest edges, alpine scrub or meadows), with only a few species extending into northern China [1] [2].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
