DOI: 10.36347/sajb.2021.v09i04.003

Pages: 116-119

Emilia sonchifolia (L.) DC. is a regular occurring annual weed of the tropical and semi tropical zones. This research investigation geared towards the morpho-anatomical properties of the plant. The stem is erect to prostrate, branched and sparingly pubescent which can attain up to 30cm in height. The sessile leaves are simple lanceolate with opposite phyllotaxy having margins that are deeply lobed, measuring up to 6.4±1.0 cm long and 3.5±0.8 cm wide with an acute apex. The inflorescence is bell-shaped capitulum consisting of disc florets surrounded by involucre of bracts. Florets are pale purple rarely white in color. Epidermal study revealed anomocytic stomata and amphistomatic in nature. Anatomical study showed a layer of epidermal cells. The hypodermis is made of 2 to 3 rolls of collenchyma, general cortex and pith dominated by parenchyma in the same mode of occurrence in mid-ribs, petioles, stems, nodes and roots except that the number of rolls of cells varied slightly and vasculation is open type. There are presence of crystals and tanniferous cells. The phytochemical studies revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, phlobatannins, phenol, steroids. The information generated here would further assist in the delimitation of the species.