Comparative anatomy of root and stem of some native and exotic Asparagus L. species

摘要

Leaf, root, stem and cladode anatomical studies were conducted to evaluate their significance in taxonomy and distribution pattern of Asparagus species in the Faisalabad region, Pakistan. Asparagus adscendens, an important medicinal plant, was the only native species of the region that is distributed widely in the Punjab plains and sub-mountainous region. It is characterized by relatively thick cuticle and epidermis as well as thick endodermis. Asparagus densiflorus and A. setaceus were the widely cultivated species in the region and adapted to a variety of environmental conditions. They had thicker roots, larger parenchymatous cells, and well developed vascular tissue than the other species and cultivars. On the whole, a strong relation of descriptive features with plant anatomy was recorded, and therefore, these features can be used as a tool for the taxonomy of the genus Asparagus. In addition, by using these anatomical modifications their tolerance to environmental stresses can be easily assessed.