Leaf Anatomy and Micromorphology of Justicia Gendarussa (Burm F.) (Willow-leaved Justicia) from Peninsular Malaysia

• Main Authors: Tajudin, Aidatul Aifa, Che Amri, Che Nurul Aini, Shahari, Rozilawati
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English; English
• Published: 2021
• Subjects: QK Botany
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/93860/1/93860_Leaf%20Anatomy%20and%20Micromorphology%20of%20Justicia%20Gendarussa.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/93860/2/93860_Leaf%20Anatomy%20and%20Micromorphology%20of%20Justicia%20Gendarussa%20_abstract%20book.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/93860/

Acanthaceae family was used traditionally especially for native communities in Peninsular Malaysia and also known as one of the potential plant families that can cure diseases. Nowadays, many taxonomists also have difficulties in order to identify species in Acanthaceae due to the morphological similarities and also incomplete part of plants especially during identification process. But until now, there is no comprehensive research especially for plant anatomy that has been documented specific to Justicia gendarussa. J. gendarussa or known as ‘daun rusa or genda rusa’ is useful for the treatment of inflammation, bronchitis, vaginal discharges, eye diseases, dyspepsia (heartburn) and fever in Ayurveda. Thus, the aim of this study is to identify the leaf anatomical and micromorphological characteristics of J. gendarussa which can give additional information for identification of species studied. Methods used were sectioning using sliding microtome, epidermal peeling and leaf micromorphology method using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Findings from this study showed that the presence of collenchyma, sclerenchyma and mucilage cells have been recorded either in petiole or midrib of the leaves. The anatomical characteristics observed include petiole and midrib outlines, patterns of petiole and midrib vascular bundles, presence of cystolith cells and presence and types of trichomes. As a conclusion, leaf anatomy and micromorphology characteristics are useful for additional data in identification of J. gendarussa.