Distribution and morpho-anatomical characterization of ‘Beket’ (Coriaria japonica subsp. intermedia (Matsum) T. C. Huanh) in Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines

Abstract

Coriaria, the only genus under family Coriariacea, receives a lot interest among botanist due to its controversial taxonomic treatment and unique phytochemistry that could be commercially important. The populations of Coriaria japonica subsp. intermedia in Cordillera Central Range (CCR), Philippines had never been studied in detail. With the need for more information on this controversial genus, the study deemed it necessary to present the distribution and morpho-anatomical description of C. japonica subsp. intermedia in CCR. A total of 123 populations were documented, found at an elevation range of 1334 to 2494 m asl and stretched between 16°31′37.7″ to 17°5′47.8″N and 120°39′40.3″ to 120°55′48″E. Mapping these populations showed a narrow linear pattern of distribution concentrated at the southern portion of CCR. The plant is a shrub with simple leaves, collateral buds, raceme inflorescence, bisexual flowers with persistent perianth forming an accessory fruit after fertilization. In terms of anatomy, much are of the usual dicot characters such as dorsiventral leaf with stomata concentrated in the lower epidermis, eustele with pith in the stem and presence of secondary growth both on old stem and old root. Interesting findings of the study include the 123 populations, the larger leaf measurements, longer petals and larger fruits than the original description given by Matsumura. Also, the paracytic type of stomata and presence of pith in the primary roots of C. japonica subsp. intermedia are interesting since these are common monocot characters while the plant is dicot. These findings are additional information that could help clear the controversies on the genus Coriaria. More importantly, our results could provide essential information for understanding the plant and for developing conservation strategies not just for this plant but also for the other related plants in the CCR biogeographical zone.