Sítio Burle Marx: collection of aromatic Zingiberaceae plants

Research at Sítio Roberto Burle Marx reveals the anatomical basis for the aromatic properties of Zingiberaceae plants, which are widely used as seasonings and medicinal agents. The study identifies secretory idioblasts containing volatile substances in leaf blades of genera Alpinia, Zingiber, and Kaempferia, confirming their role in producing metabolites. Curcuma, Alpinia, and Zingiber were the most represented genera, with histological analysis showing hypostomatic leaves and silica crystals alongside aromatic cells. These findings contribute to understanding the plant family's widespread culinary and medicinal applications.

Victório, C. P., & Arruda, R. d. C. d. O. (2025). Sítio Burle Marx: collection of aromatic Zingiberaceae plants. Nature and Conservation, 18(1), e8737. https://doi.org/10.6008/cbpc2318-2881.2025.001.0003