Article

This is the first study deals in-depth with the seed ultra-structure of the genus Euphorbia L in Egypt. It focuses on 29 species belonging to this genus. The seed morphology and seed coat sculpture of those species were studied using Stereoscopic and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Seed characters such as shape, caruncle, epidermal cells, anticlinal boundaries, and periclinal walls were proved to be of taxonomic importance, especially for the delimitation of the concerned species. Based on the general shape of testa surface, six seed morphotypes were recognized as follows: smooth, rugose, pitted, transversely sulcate, tuberculate and reticulate.