Morphological Notes on Gynaecium and Fruit of Seven Species in the Genus Epimedium L.(Berberidaceae)

Epimedium L.,a worldwide genus of some 57 species including nearly 50 species in central to southeast China was established by Linnaeus in 1753.China is the modern geographical distribution center of Epimedium L.,and may be the differentiation center.A common problem in phytotaxonomic academia is providing each species with a clear status in the genus.We conducted morphological research on Epimedium L.to deepen and clarify the different descriptions on the characteristics of gynaecium and fruit according Chinese taxonomic literature.Results from field observation and anatomical study showed the placenta type of seven species in Epimedium is marginal placentation and the fruit is follicle.