Abstract

Grewia lasiocarpa E. Mey. ex Harv is commonly known as the forest raisin(s) due to its edible red-brown 4-lobed fruit(s), which turn black as they age. The genus is easily recognised by its distinctive morphology (edible fruits, crystals, trichomes) and abundant medicinal properties (antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant). In order to distinguish this species from other Grewia species, this study aimed to describe the morphology, ultrastructure of the leaves, stem bark and secretory structures of G. lasiocarpa using microscopic techniques and histochemical tests. The morphological and anatomical studies revealed the presence of glandular trichomes. One type of peltate, three types of capitate and non-glandular (simple, stellate, multangulate-stellate) trichomes were found on the leaves and stem bark of G. lasiocarpa. The histochemical investigation revealed that certain primary and secondary metabolites such as starch, protein, mucilage, lignin (polyphenols) and alkaloids are present in the leaves, stem bark and indumentum. This is the first report on the morphological, ultrastructure and histochemical studies of leaves and stem bark of Grewia lasiocarpa. This structural characterisation of the leaves and stem bark would help to distinguish this species from others in this genus, its ascertain authenticity, contribute to the pharmacognostic usage and general knowledge.

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