The achene in 17 species of the sub-family Ranunculoideae (Ranunculaceae) was morphologically and
anatomically studied to show the variation patterns of these two parameters. The surface of the achene and the
appearance of the style whether normal and plumose or in the form of a beak were found to be delimitrate to the
taxa studied. SEM investigation of the pericarp showed that six types of surface sculpture were recorded and the
reticulate type was sub-divided into six sub-types. Stress was laid upon the achene vasculature for suggesting a
phylogenetic status for the studied taxa. It was concluded that less advanced taxa are those having increased
number of vascular bundles (8-12 bundles). Intermediate taxa are those with three vascular bundles; one dorsal
and two distinct ventral bundles. More advanced taxa are those with one dorsal and two fused ventral bundles.