Leaf anatomy of Alpinia zerumbet (Pers.) Burtt & Smith (Zingiberaceae)

Abstract

It was accomplished a study of the foliar anatomy of Alpinia zerumbet (Pers.) Burtt & Smith, Zingiberaceae family collected at Horto Botânico of Quinta da Boa Vista, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ. This species is vulgarly known as “colônia” and is distinguished by its beautiful inflorescence and medicinal value. The main objective of this research is to contribute to the understanding of the morphological characteristics of this species as well its family taxonomy. Anatomically, the leaf presents a dorsiventral organization of the mesophyll, disaccording with most monocotyledonous. Another remarkable aspect is the presence of scattered oil cells throughout the mesophyll and abaxial surface of the leaf. The leaf is amphistomatic and presents hypodermis on both sides.