Abstract
The genus Cuphea is the largest and evolutionarily the most advanced member of the Lythraceae. Approximately 490 names have been applied, but Cuphea is in need of revision, and it is estimated there are about 260 valid species. A survey of Cuphea pollen reveals that the genus is eurypalynous. From 125 species examined, several pollen categories are recognized, including diporate grains from nine species reported here for the first time. The remaining species are oblate, tricolporate, tectate, commonly striate, and often syncolpate. Among the taxonomic conclusions that may be derived from a study of the pollen there are the following: Cuphea pseudosilene pollen is distinctly different from other members of the Section Brachyandra, Subsection Melanium, and more closely compares to C. parsonsia of the Subsection Balsamonella. Cuphea aperta and C. micrantha have pollen similar to members of the Section Trispermum, rather than other members of their present Section Brachyandra. Section Euandra, Subsection Oidemation is heterogeneous in pollen types, and probably does not represent a natural assemblage. Pollen size and morphology has demonstrated hybrids between C. wrightii subsp. wrightii and C. wrightii subsp. compacta. These and other data are proving useful in the revision currently underway of this difficult genus.
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