Morphology and anatomy characterization of Ehretia acuminata R.Br in Viet Nam

Abstract

Ehretia acuminata R.Br. (Boraginaceae) is a medicinal plant species widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions, including Vietnam. However, detailed anatomical data for taxonomic identification and pharmacognostical applications remain limited. This study aims to investigate the morphological and anatomical characteristics of the vegetative organs of E. acuminata collected in Northern Vietnam. Our findings reveal that the leaves exhibit a bifacial structure with well-developed palisade mesophyll and loosely arranged spongy mesophyll. The epidermis consists of a single cell layer covered by a distinct cuticle, with stomata predominantly distributed on the abaxial surface. Stem anatomy demonstrates typical secondary growth with clearly differentiated vascular tissues arranged in a continuous ring, while the root structure shows characteristic development of secondary xylem. Key anatomical features, including the organization of the mesophyll, the structure of vascular bundles, and epidermal characteristics, are identified as valuable diagnostic markers for species identification. This study contributes to the anatomical database of the species in Vietnam and provides a foundation for subsequent taxonomic research and medicinal material standardization.