Fruit morphology of Chinese Glochidion (Phyllanthaceae) and its taxonomic implications

Glochidion is a taxonomically difficult genus with more than 300 species, among which the circumscriptions are disputable. Based on extensive field investigation and detailed study of herbarium specimens, the fruit morphological characteristics of 21 Chinese Glochidion species were recorded and analyzed. Results indicated that most morphological characteristics of the fruits, such as fruit trichome, size and persistent styles, as well as the morphology and number of fruit grooves, exhibited high diversity and could be used in distinguishing the different species studied. In addition, a key to the Glochidion species studied is provided.