The seed-coat and the development of epidermal slime bodies of the following species groups of Malcolmia sensu lato were investigated with SEM, viz. M. maritima agg. including M. macrocalyx, M. crenutata agg., M. africana agg., and Torularia spp. using special techniques (swelling in water and/or in eau de Javel, ultra sonic treatment). The morphology of the epidermal slime bodies is found to be rather uniform within the same species group whereas there are great differences between the different groups. These results are discussed in relation to the taxonomic treatment and subdivision of Malcolmia sensu lato suggested by different botanists.