Comparative Micromorphological Characteristics of Lower Surface of Leaf Epidermis and Seed Surface in Two Series of Crataegus L. (Rosaceae) and Their Taxonomical Role

Micromorphological features regarding lower surface of leaf epidermis and seed surface in eight crataegus taxa representing the series pentagynae and series crataegus subseries erianthae were studied by scanning electron microscopy. all data were analyzed using anova and pca statistical methods. qualitative traits of lower surface of leaf epidermis include relief of cuticle membrane, striations and kinds of crystalloid waxes allow distinct delimitation at infrageneric, inter- and infraspecific levels, whereas the quantitative characteristics are less informative. the seed traits compared to the leaf features provide less reliable characters in the taxonomy of the genus.