Abstract
Objective: The genus Ulmus belonging to the Ulmaceae represented with four species (U. glabra Hudson, U. minor Miller, U. canescens Melville, and U. laevis Pallas) in Turkey. This genus, known as "Karaağaç," is used in folk medicine. The therapeutic part of these species is the inner bark; externally, it is mainly used to treat wounds and bone fractures. This study aims to determine and compare anatomical characteristics of the leaf, petiole, branch, and bark of Ulmus species.
Material and Method: Cross-sections of all samples preserved in 70% alcohol after collection from the field -also superficial sections taken from both sides of the leaf- were examined with a light microscope.
Result and Discussion: The anatomical examination determined that all species had typical Ulmaceae elements. Differences observed in the anatomical structure of U. canescens compared to other species; a crescent-shaped vascular bundle and angular collenchyma on the petiole, and calcium oxalate crystals located in the pith region of the branch. On the other hand, in U. laevis, the number of mucilage channels in the branch is significantly less compared to other species. Non-glandular trichomes and crystals are different in density and size in all species. In the bark anatomy, crystals showing a regular arrangement were found in the periderm of U. minor and U. canescens.