"ray-intrusive" laticifers in species of Croton section Cyclostigma (Euphorbiaceae)

Abstract

A description of the occurrence and structure of "ray-intrusive" laticifers in the rays of species of Croton section Cyclostigma is provided. The systematic significance of laticifers within Croton section Cyclostigma is briefly discussed in relation to the section's known production of red latex, commonly called "dragon's blood". A developmental hypothesis is offered and discussed in the context of the assumption that all laticifers in wood rays are non-articulated.