Anatomical comparison of stems and leaves in local and introduced grape (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivars

Grapes are economically significant and widely cultivated, with various types found in Iraq, including Ajami, Dis Anz, Halwani, Kamali, Al-Yaqut and Red Glabe. This study compares the anatomical structures of these six cultivars using microscopic techniques revealing distinct characteristics. Al-Yaqut exhibited the greatest thickness in peripheral epidermis, cuticle, vascular bundles and xylem vessels, while Des Anz showed the highest epidermal thickness in leaf blades. Kamali's upper epidermis walls were notably thicker. Stomata were anomocytic, with guard cells varying in shape. Crystal types included acicular, prismatic and star-shaped across different varieties. Overall, the study identified distinct anatomical variations among cultivars, which may hold functional and genetic significance for future research.