Morphometric Studies of Accessions of Duranta erecta L. (Vebernaceae) Complex in Nigeria

Studies were conducted to broaden the systematic knowledge of genus Duranta erecta L., contribute a better understanding their taxonomic and evolutionary relationships. Previous studies have pointed out complexity in taxonomy nomenclature species. A total 224 samples collected from six geo-political zones Nigeria, grouped into 38 accessions. The plants compared using 21 morphological characters involving qualitative quantitative characteristics. Multivariate analyses such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) Cluster (CA) employed evaluate intraspecific variabilities. results showed that all exhibited significant differences attributes with variegated type having longest widest leaves ranging 12.20 cm 5.08 cm, respectively. delimited accessions distinctive groups eight forms namely; green bush, yellow yellow, white, double, plain broad green, thorny type. PCA leaf length, width, internode length inflorescence some while shape, colour, margin, flower colour apex are traits accounted for delimitation. Unpaired Weighted Group (UPGMA) Euclidian separated two major clusters; cluster I (flower producing) II (non-flower erecta. Morphological variations field observations suggested there could be gene flow among studied is an important factor population genetics, shaping diversity