The wood anatomy of nine species of Eugenia (Myrtaceae) native in Rio Grande do Sul State (Brazil) is presently studied in order to identify diagnostic characters useful to identify genus and species. A great structural homogeneity was observed, reflecting the high number of shared anatomical features. None characteristic is exclusive to this taxonomic group. The value of axial parenchyma arrangement to species segregation is confirmed, as well as the frequency of pores and characteristics of rays. It is not possible to disprove, based on wood anatomy, the inclusion of Hexachlamys in Eugenia, as suggested by Landrum and Kawasaki (1997).
Wood; taxonomy; anatomy; Myrteae
