A systematic review of the genus Abelmoschus (Malvaceae)

Abstract

The diverse agro-climatic conditions encompassing variable farming systems, rainfall and soil regimes have promoted diversification of the crops in the Southeast Asia. India is a rich treasure house of various species of Abelmoschus and all 11 species are found either in the wild, semi-wild or under cultivation. The genus Abelmoschus has a tortured systematic history. The ambiguity in nomenclature and lack of strong morphological characters for the delimitation of species has made the circumscription the genus rather controversial and created problems in breeder’s selection efforts. In the present review updated information on its taxonomy, genetic diversity, cytology and interspecific hybridization is discussed.