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Research Paper | Botany | India | Volume 12 Issue 10, October 2023
Micromorphological Insights into Leaf Architecture of Abutilon indicum
Madhulika Jadon
Abstract: The Malvaceae family, commonly known as the mallow family, encompasses a diverse group of plants with significant importance due to their food crops and their medicinal and economic value. Among its members, Abutilon indicum, also known as Indian mallow or country mallow, stands out as a perennial medicinal plant native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. This research paper delves into the study of leaf architecture in Abutilon indicum from the Malvaceae family. Leaf architecture serves as a valuable tool for plant identification, particularly when flowers and fruits are not available. By analyzing micromorphological leaf characters, this study aims to contribute to the taxonomy and identification of Abutilon indicum. The methodology involved plant identification through the Flora of Madhya Pradesh BSI (Botanical Survey of India), India. Leaf samples were carefully collected, preserved, and subjected to clearing techniques to reveal their venation patterns and other architectural characteristics. The results and discussion highlight the unique leaf architecture features of Abutilon indicum, including the ovate leaf lamina shape, acuminate apex, cordate base, serrate margin, actinodromous venation pattern with a basal perfect reticulate sub - type, etc. Detailed measurements were recorded, such as lamina length, lamina width, leaf area, and vein characteristics like the number of primary veins, angle of divergence of secondary veins on primary veins, vein order, etc. These findings can contribute to the development of identification keys and aid in the classification of the species. Further investigation of minor venation characteristics is recommended for a more comprehensive understanding of leaf architecture.
Keywords: Malvaceae, Abutilon indicum, leaf architecture, venation
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 10, October 2023,
Pages: 1942 - 1946