Common Names: Iberian knapweed
This study looked at the pollen of 15 species of Asteraceae on the Sikaram Mountain Pak-Afghan border using microscopic techniques. The researchers observed and measured 15 pollen characters such as size, shape, and exine sculpturing. They found that pollen grains are usually tricolporate and have varying shapes and sculpturing. The study also measured pollen fertility and sterility and used clustering analysis to separate closely related taxa. Ultimately, the researchers conclude that palynological study is crucial for taxonomy and can be improved with further analysis.