Seed epidermis characters of four Ephedra species observation by SEM

Article Abstract: Characters of seeds epidermis of four Ephedra species were observed by SEM. The results showed that the shape, size and colour of seeds were little difference between Ephedra sinica and E. intermedina, but there was significant difference between E. equisetina andE. przewalskii. Ephedra sinica and E. intermedina had similar seed surface. E. equisetina and E. przewalskii had special sculpture at their seed surface. The microcos- mic morphological characteristics of seeds were invariable;every species has its particular characteristic and can not be affected by environment. It is important for Ephedra species identification.