SEM observations on. petals and fruits of some Turkish endemic Bupleurum L. (Umbelliferae) species

Abstract

Petal and fruit surface sculpturing are reported for seven endemic Bupleurum species in Turkey. Considerable differences in the dorsal surface of petals were observed, but major structural similarities were found in the ventral surface of petals. Significant taxonomic differences between species were determined on the surfaces of the fruits. These microstructural surface features are evaluated as possible consistent parameters in the delimitation of species of Bupleurum. (C) 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2002, 138, 441-449.