Leaf architecture in Tamaricaceae

Abstract

The leaf architectural pattern in 6 species ofTamarix and two species of Myricaria has been investigated. The leaves are simple, alternate and sessile. In Tamarix aphylla, Tamarix dioica, Tamarix gracilis and Tamarix troupii the leaves are completely or partially sheathing. In these species only the primary vein is distinguishable, the secondaries and the further orders of venation being not distinguishable from one another. In the other two species of Tamarix and in Myricaria the major venation pattern is pinnatecamptodromous type. The intercostal venation is of random reticulate type, and the marginal ultimate venation is incomplete. The areoles are polygonal to irregular in outline and randomly oriented. They may contain one or more veinlets or none. There is no direct correlation between the size of an areole and the number of vein endings. Hence, these characters cannot be said to be taxonomically significant as far as the species of Tamarix and Myricaria are concerned.