ISHS Acta Horticulturae 766: XXVII International Horticultural Congress - IHC2006: International Symposium on Ornamentals, Now!
INVESTIGATIONS ON THE ANATOMY OF EBENUS CRETICA L. FABACEAE |
| Authors: | T.G. Vrachnakis, J.C. Vlahos |
| Keywords: | Ebenus cretica, anatomy, morphology, epidermal cells, trichomes, gelatinous fibers |
| Abstract:
The perennial endemic plant of Crete, Ebenus cretica L. (Fabaceae) has been under investigation at the TEI of Crete for its potential use as an ornamental plant in commercial floriculture and landscape horticulture. In the present study several morphological and anatomical features of its woody tissues, leaves, flowers and other organs were investigated by both light and scanning electron microscopy as well as by stereoscope in an effort to further study and confirm the properties of this plant in relation to its xeromorphic features. All plant surfaces are covered by hairs which were observed to be non-glandular trichomes derived form epidermal cells even before their full development. No trichomes were observed in flower organs or cotyledons. The tissues of woody roots and stems are dominated by xylem fibres with thick gelatinous walls which provide support and flexibility to the wood of Ebenus. The parenchymatic cells of Ebenus contain characteristic starch grains justifying the use of Ebenus as a nutritious animal feed by local farmers. | |
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