Morpho-anatomical diversity of five species of genus Asparagus (Asparagaceae) from Algeria

Five species of genus Asparagus are recognized in the flora Algeria: A. acutifolius L., albus horridus officinalis and endemic altissimus Munby. The chorology each these is fairly well known. In this study, morphological variation anatomical features cladodes have been evaluated respect to taxonomic unit ecogeographical distribution suggest distinct adaptive strategies. Analysis performed on twenty-nine natural populations sampled along east-west bioclimatic gradient Northern Algeria. Multivariate analysis based main diagnostic descriptors, underlines interspecific differentiation particularly with stigma type bifid versus trifid, shape flowers, color berry, number a fascicle. For anatomy unique, unlike that stems roots. Interspecific was observed form cross-sections cladode, thickness cuticle, epidermal cells, vascular bundles presence raphides. Morphological traits cladode constitute important criteria within Asparagus.