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A revision of Centella series Capenses (Apiaceae)
Author(s) -
Schubert Mahalia T. R.,
Wyk BenErik
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
nordic journal of botany
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.333
H-Index - 33
eISSN - 1756-1051
pISSN - 0107-055X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1756-1051.1997.tb00318.x
Subject(s) - umbel , biology , apiaceae , botany , inflorescence , bract , perennial plant , genus , habit , zoology , psychology , cultivar , psychotherapist
Centella capensis (L.) Domin and related species form a distinct but poorly known group within the genus. The most conspicuous diagnostic feature is the unique inflorescence structure. Each umbel comprises a central umbellule reduced to a single, sessile, functionally female flower and four lateral, functionally male, pedicellate umbellules each reduced to a single flower. The umbel is surrounded by four large, foliaceous bracts. Another unusual character is the habit. Most of the species are annuals or short‐lived perennials, while all other species of the genus are perennial shrublets. A taxonomic revision of the four species and three varieties recognized, is presented.