Developmental anatomy ofAphyllanthes monspeliensis,a herbaceous Monocotyledon with secondary growth

Aphyllanthes monspeliensis is an isolated member of theLiliiflorae endemic to the Mediterranean region. It is herbaceous, but in its rhizome possesses a secondary thickening meristem (STM). The secondary tissues produced are similar to those known in various arborescent Monocotyledons. Ultrastructural features of the STM cells are described. A relictual intrafascicular cambium also occurs in the bundles of the primary system of the rhizome.