TERMINOLOGY OF HAIRS IN THE GENUS SOLANUM

Summary The taxonomic value of plant hairs would be enhanced by a standardized terminology. However, the great diversity in hair morphology often precludes using single terms to describe hair types. In some genera the multitude of hair features requires numerous descriptive terms just as do other complex plant parts. It is suggested that efforts be made by systematists using hair characters in descriptions to be precise in terminology and to derive terms from Latin rather than generalize hair types as simple, stellate, etc. The genus Solanum exhibits great hair diversity. Some examples of hairs from this genus are illustrated and a terminology suggested.