Anatomical studies on the Scilla verna (Hyacinthaceae) complex

The phytodermology and leaf and scape anatomy were studied in wild populati ons of the Scilla verna complex (Scilla verna Hudson, S. ramburei Boiss, S. odorata Link, S. monophyllos Link., S paui Lacaita, and S. merinoi Ortiz e t al.) and several unrelated species (Scilla peruviana L., S. hyacinthoides L., S. lilio-hyacinthus L., and S. obtusifolia Poiret) in order to determi ne diagnostic characters to be used in intertaxa relationships. With the ex ception of leaf shape transection, all examined characters show little vari ation within taxa. Of the characters examined, those that show discrete var iation between the studied taxa are the presence of trichomes, heterogeneit y of chlorenchyma, presence of mucilaginous cavities, and epidermal extensi ons of the leaf margins. The close anatomical similarity observed between t he Scilla taxa precludes its broad use for diagnosis. Within the complex, o nly Scilla monophyllos and S. paui could be distinguished by the anatomical features. No clear relationship has arisen between leaf stomatal measureme nts and ploidy level of the taxa.