Morphological and biochemical variations in Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb. from mountains of Pakistan

Abstract

Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb.(Elaeagnacea) is a native multipurpose plant from Himalayan regions of Pakistan.Its flowers and fruit are rich in vitamins, flavonoides, essential oil, lycopene and other bioactive compounds.Five populations of Elaeagnus umbellata from variable microenvironments of District Poonch were compared in terms of morphology and biochemistry using conventional and biochemical techniques.In spite of significant variability in morphological characteristics and vitamin C, seed oil and leaf chlorophyll content, Elaeagnus umbellata has great potential as a raw material for pharmaceutical industries, soil stabilization, reclamation, and for economic activities to the disadvantageous communities of the mountainous regions of Pakistan.