Abstract
Analysis of stem vasculature in representatives of subfamily Monsteroideae (Araceae) by cinematographic techniques based on serial sections shows three main patterns of organization. One group of five genera (Rhaphidophora, Epipremnum, Amydrium, Scindapsus, Monstera) is characterized by simple vascular bundles and axial bundles which are derived by basal aggregation of small bundles branching from existing axial bundles. Another group of two genera (Stenospermation, Rhodospatha) is characterized by compound vascular bundles which are made by rather irregular association of individual collateral bundles. These two groups correspond to the tribe Monstereae. The last group which corresponds to the tribe Spathiphylleae includes two genera (Spathiphyllum, Holochlamys) with amphivasal vascular bundles which are highly condensed and irregularly anastomosing. In part, this division is correlated with habit and habitat. Some members of the first group resemble genera within the subfamily Pothoideae quite closely and indicate that the two subfamilies are not clearly circumscribed. Compound bundles in Rhodospatha and Stenospermation do not have the precise organization previously reported for the Pandanaceae.
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