The objective of this study was to characterize the morphology of the fruits, seeds and seedlings of two tree species of the Leguminosae Mimosoideae, which grow naturally in Sergipe state, for taxonomic purposes and for studies on the natural recovery and restoration of riparian forests. The morphological characteristics of angico [Anadenanthera colubrina (Vellozo) Brenan] and tamboril [Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Vellozo) Morong] have been described and illustrated. The fruits were collected by pruning 5 donor trees, at least 50 m distant from each other. The morphometric and the external and internal morphological characteristics of the fruits and seeds and the external seedling and nursery plant characteristics were evaluated. A. colubrina has dry, dehiscent fruits whereas E. contortisiliquum fruits are dry and indehiscent. Both species have a pleurogram and are not albuminous. The characters of the embryo and the epigeal-phanerocotylar germination are similar to those observed in the Caesalpinioideae. In the seedlings, the presence of extrafloral glandular nectaries on the rachis in A. colubrina and lenticels in E. contortisiliquum aid in the identification. The presence of root nodules in E. contortisiliquum and a tuberous root in A. colubrina are essential for species differentiation. It is concluded that the internal and external structures of the fruits and seeds and the external morphology of the seedlings will allow quick and accurate identification, providing a basis for studies with these species in the laboratory, nursery or field.
forest species; taxonomy; dendrology; angico; tamboril
