Comparative Study for Some Anatomical Quality Characteristics of Some Species of the Malvaceae Family in Erbil, Iraq

A detailed study was conducted on various specimens of Alcea and Althaea, including Althaea hirsuta, Althaea ludwigii, Althaea officinalis, and Alcea kurdica, Alcea rosa cultivars (white, pink, violet, and red hollyhocks, depending on the flower color. Each specimen exhibited distinct morphological characteristics in petiole structure, midrib anatomy, leaf border features, and epidermal cell patterns. Trichome Diversity and Leaf Anatomy. The specimens displayed a variety of trichomes, including non-glandular (unicellular and multicellular), glandular (capitate and short-stalked), and peltate types. Additionally, druse crystals were observed in the petiole and midrib of all specimens, suggesting a possible role in structural support or defense mechanisms. Epidermal Cell and Stomatal Characteristics. The anticlinal walls of the epidermal cells varied from straight to undulate, with polygonal cell morphologies dominating across all samples. Stomatal analysis revealed the presence of paracytic and anisocytic types on both abaxial and adaxial leaf surfaces, with some instances of conjugate stomata, indicating adaptations to different environmental conditions. Variations among Cultivars and Wild Species. The Alcea rosa cultivars exhibited subtle differences in trichome density and leaf margin structure compared to wild species like Alcea kurdica and Althaea spp., which had more pronounced midrib shapes and petiole cross-sections. These morphological distinctions could be useful for taxonomic identification and understanding ecological adaptations. This study highlights the structural diversity within Alcea and Althaea, providing insights into their classification and potential functional adaptations.