Leaf Anatomy of Parkia clappertoniana Keay(Mimosaceae)

The bipinnate-compound leaf of Parkia clappertoniana has prominent, long petiole with a pulvinal base. The pulvinus has wood, periderm, lenticels and extensive cortical layer. Its vascular bundles are elongated with alternating rays. The vascular bundles of the petiole, rachis and veins are oval, with conspicuous bundle caps. Stomatal complex is predominantly paracytic with occasional occurrence of anomocytic stomata near the midrib. The oval stomata have conspicuous stomatal ledges. Trichomes are unicellular, acicular and restricted to the rachis, petiole and pinnule mid-ribs and margin. Ecological and taxonomic significance of features is discussed.