Abstract

                                Solanum L. (Solanaceae) is one of the largest genera of angiosperms, where subgenus Leptostemonum consists of one-third of its economically important species. However, the group faces difficulty in species identification due to the lack of a regional key to each species. As Solanum species carry out traits for resistance to disease, pests, and nematodes, hassle in species identification hinders their utilization. Hence this study provides a detailed morphological characterizationof five Solanum species which bring forth a clear identification of the species and may further be exploited for improvement program in brinjal.

Key words : Solanum; Leptostemonum; Brinjal; Grafting; Morphology