Abstract
The aromatic roots of Viola arvensis and V. rafinesquii were studied in order to determine the chemical nature and anatomical localization of their volatile compounds. Gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy revealed a single detectable volatile compound, methyl salicylate. Light microscopy and differential staining with Sudan III indicates the source of this compound to be enlarged secretory cells located in the endodermis, an unusual position for such cells in roots of angiosperms. The secretory endodermal cells are sporadic, but are more frequent in primary roots than in secondary roots and the lower portion of the hypocotyl. It is hypothesized that secretory endodermal cells are restricted within Viola to subgenus Melanium where the methyl salicylate confers protection against herbivores and/or pathogens.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-1990
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 1990, Southern Appalachian Botanical Society. This article first appeared in Castanea: 55:1 (1990), 65-70.
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Recommended Citation
Hayden, W. John, and John Clough. "Methyl Salicylate Secretory Cells in Roots of Viola Arvensis and V. Rafinesquii (Violaceae)." Castanea 55, no. 1 (March 1990): 65-70.