Stomatal distribution and size in southern Appalachian hardwoods

Abstract

In 1972 and 1973 a scanning electron microscope was used to study stomata and cuticular surfaces of shade leaves collected from trees growing in the mountain and eastern coalfield region of Kentucky. Stomatal frequency and size determinations are presented for about 50 southern Appalachian forest species. Stomata varied from 6534/cm 2 in Asimina triloba to 90 909/cm 2 in Quercus palustris. Mesic species had fewer stomata per unit leaf surface area than xeric species. Stomatal frequency was not related to shade tolerance. The largest stomata (35 microns (μ)) were found in Populus gileadensis while the smallest (5μ) occurred in Quercus coccinea.