Leaf anatomy of the South African Danthonieae (Poaceae). X. Pseudo- pentameris

Abstract

The leaf blade anatomy of Pseudopentameris macramha (Schrad.) Conert and P. brachyphylla (Stapf) Conert was studied both in transection and in surface view and is illustrated by means of photomicrographs. The leaf anatomy is typically danthonoid. T he abaxial epidermis consists of inflated, hexagonal long cells and stomata and micro-hairs are absent. Adaxial micro-hairs were observed. The creation of a new genus to accommodate these two species appears justified but certain species in  Pentameris Beauv.,  Merxmuellera Conert and Pentaschistis Stapf show similarities to Pseudopentameris and consideration should be given to their inclusion in Pseudopentamem.