Anatomical studies on the genus Blumea DC. (Asteraceae, Inuleae, Paniculatae) in Peninsular India

The genus Blumea is one of the largest genera in the tribe Inuleae. In this study, stem and leaf anatomical features of the genus Blumea in the section Paniculatae DC. of Randeria are investigated. Blumea laciniata DC., B. barbata DC., B. sessiliflora Decne., B. membranacea DC., B. axillaris DC., B. virens Wall. ex DC., B. lacera (Burm.f.) DC., and B. fistulosa Kurz. are the eight species present in the Peninsular Indian region. The samples collected from different areas of Peninsular India were studied anatomically using the conventional method. The results revealed that generally the species share similar anatomical characteristics but there are some remarkable differences. With respect to the results, trichome morphology appears to be of taxonomic value. The species can be separated on the basis of trichome types, the presence of secretory canals, and the layer of palisade tissue. An identification key to the taxa is provided based on the anatomical features of the leaf and stem.