Characteristics of leaf venation of Mussaenda and its relative genera

The classification of Mussaenda L. has been controversial due to the complex interspecific variation and hybridization within the genus. In order to explore the taxonomical significance of leaf venation characteristics between Mussaenda and its relative genera(Schizomussaenda Li and Psudomussaenda Wernham), and to provide data for the identification, development and utilization when they were regarded as the medical and garden plant resources, the leaf venation characteristics of 22 species of this group were observed by using the cleaning method. The cluster analysis was carried out based on the characteristics of leaf venation, and a classification key of the species was compiled. The results were as follows:(1)The characteristics of the leaf venation of Mussaenda and its relative genera had consistency, which were mainly reflected on that the primary veins were all pinnate, the frequency of inter-secondary veins was less than one per areolation, the angles between the major secondary veins and the midveins were acute, the tertiary veins were mostly penetrating, and the arrangement of the areolation were all irregular.(2)The characteristics of the leaf venation with taxonomic value among genera or species within genera included the type of major secondary vein venation type, the angle between major secondary vein and midvein, the major secondary vein spacing, the connection between major secondary vein and midvein, the existence of inter-secondary vein and intramarginal secondary vein, the penetration type of intercostal tertiary vein, the type of quaternary vein, the branching of freely ending veinlet, and the areole development.(3)According to the cluster analysis, 22 species of this group were clustered into 12 branches, and Schizomussaenda and Psudomussaenda were not clustered into one branch respectively, showing a relatively close genetic relationship. In conclusion, the leaf venation characteristics of Mussaenda and its related taxa can provide new information for the classification of the plants.