THE MORPHO-ANATOMICAL ADAPTATIONS OF ENDEMIC LIMONIUM LILACINUM (PLUMBAGINACEAE) TO HALOPHYTIC ENVIRONMENTS

The anatomical and morphological features of Limonium lilacinum (Boiss. & Bal.) Wagenitz, an endemic plant species of the Irano-Turanian phytogeographic region, were investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the anatomical and morphological features. This study also aimed to discuss the adaptations of L. lilacinum to halophytic environments in comparison to other family members. Metric and meristic measurements were performed on roots, stems, leaves, and seeds to identify morphological properties. During anatomical evaluation, plant roots, stems, and leaves, fixed in 70% ethanol, were exposed to alcohol and xylene series. Sections were obtained using a rotary microtome. Specimens were investigated under a light microscope. The leaves were broad, elliptic, or oblong-ovate. The inflorescence type was corymbose or paniculate. The color of petals was pink. Root cross-sections revealed rhizodermis in the outermost layer of the root, the cortex, phloem and xylem containing sclerenchyma and pith rays. The amphistomatic leaves had anisocytic type stomata and salt glands. Bundle sheaths surrounded the vascular bundles in the midrib of the leaf.