Characterization of Anatomical Characteristics of the Endemic Digitalis lamarkcii (Plantaginaceae)

Abstract

This research, focusing on the anatomical attributes of the endemic species Digitalis lamarckii within the Digitalis genus, strives to make contributions to the taxonomy of the genus. The anatomical examination of D. lamarckii encompassed cross-sections of the stem, leaf, and midrib, utilizing safranin and fast-green staining methods. Subsequently, these samples were meticulously prepared as fixed specimens, followed by comprehensive photographic documentation. The stem exhibits a cortex layer comprising 10-11 rows of robust-walled cells. Vascular bundles, numbering 5-6 layers, are observed after the sclerenchyma layers. The leaf displays a dorsiventral structure, featuring scattered palisade and spongy parenchyma cells, along with abundant intercellular spaces. A parenchymatous cell sheath envelops the vascular bundle.