Calyx and epicalyx morphology in Indian Hibiscus (Malvaceae) and its taxonomic importance

Hibisceae is one of the largest tribes in Malvaceae, having a diverse floral morphology. The genus Hibiscus shows a wide range of evolutionary patterns in calyx and epicalyx morphology. Genera like Abelmoschus , Azanza , Gossypium , Hibiscus ,and Thespesia are separated on the basis of calyx and epicalyx morphology, meaning that the calyx and epicalyx have great significance in delimitation of the genera and infrageneric taxa in Hibisceae. The present manuscript deals with the detailed calyx and epicalyx morphology in Indian Hibiscus , and its taxonomic implications, and interprets the evolutionary interrelationship among the species of Hibiscus from India.