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Epimedium Linn., Sp. Pl. 117. 1753. Gen. Pl. ed. 5:53.1754; Hook. f., Fl. Brit. Ind. 1:112.1872; Fedtsch. in Kom., Fl. U.R.S.S. 7:542.1937; Stearn in J. Linn. Soc. Bot.51:409.1938; Coode in Davis, Fl. Turk. 1:210. 1965.
Perennial, rhizomatous herbs with ternate, compound leaves; leaflets usually ovate-cordate, serrate; petiole and petiolule whitish or pale. Inflorescence panicled, usually terminal. Flowers 2-merous, white or coloured, protogynous. Perianth segments 8, outer 4 sepaloid, inner 4 petaloid with the innermost whorl curiously shoe-shaped (proximal portion flat and distal end tubular bearing nectaries in it). Stamens 4; anther valves curling backwards over the stigma. Capsule 1-celled, dry, dehiscing by 2, unequal decidous valves leaving the seeds attached to the placenta; seeds usually several, 2-seriate, with a fleshy or membranous aril.
About 20 species, chiefly in the Mediterranean region; represented here by 1 species.
Capsular fruit shows close resemblance with members of the family Leonticaceae but placentation, root stock and floral construction different.
Lower Taxon
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