Journal article

Publication year: 2016

Pages: 612-636

Journal: Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society

Volume number: 182

Issue number: 3

ISSN: 0024-4074

Open access status: Bronze

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1111/boj.12472

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract: 
We analysed pappus characters in 31 of the c. 34 accepted Leontopodium spp. (edelweiss). Micromorphological pappus character states were useful for discriminating between individual species and intrageneric groups. The pappus differs in number, length, breadth, surface structure, colour and the tips of the bristles. Several features characterize single species, for example a unique fan-like tip that is only found in L.franchetii. Leontopodium section Nobilia is supported by unusual pappus characters. Experimental evidence shows that the pappus of Leontopodium, previously thought to be caducous, is well suited for wind dispersal of the fruit. One clear trend is that species growing in sparsely vegetated, high-altitude regions often have more numerous and longer pappus bristles, particularly on the female flowers.

Harvard Citation style: Stille, J., Stuessy, T., Dickore, W., Jaeger, M., Gemeinholzer, B. and Wissemann, V. (2016) Comparative pappus micromorphology of edelweiss (Leontopodium, Gnaphalieae, Asteraceae) with implications for taxonomy, ecology and evolution, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 182(3), pp. 612-636. https://doi.org/10.1111/boj.12472

APA Citation style: Stille, J., Stuessy, T., Dickore, W., Jaeger, M., Gemeinholzer, B., & Wissemann, V. (2016). Comparative pappus micromorphology of edelweiss (Leontopodium, Gnaphalieae, Asteraceae) with implications for taxonomy, ecology and evolution. Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society. 182(3), 612-636. https://doi.org/10.1111/boj.12472