Diversity of foliar trichomes and their systematic implications in the genus Artemisia (Asteraceae)

The taxonomic relationships within the genus Artemisia L. have been very controversial. In order to understand the systematic implication of foliar trichomes within the genus, the micromorphological characteristics of foliar trichomes from 15 taxa were examined using light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The observed glandular and non-glandular trichomes were classified into eight main types. Among glandular trichomes, capitate glands had wild distribution on the both surfaces of leaves with notable variations. In case of non-glandular trichomes, T-shaped hairs were most abundant. It was also noted that foliar trichomes of genus Artemisia are good taxonomic markers and can be utilized for the discrimination of different taxa with in the genus.