ODONTOSTEMMA BALFOURIANA COMB. NOV., A NEGLECTED SPECIES FROM THE INDIAN HIMALAYA, AND RESURRECTION OF STELLARIA DEPAUPERATA EDGEW.

Abstract

Odontostemma balfouriana (W.W.Sm.) Satish Chandra & D.S.Rawat is recorded here as a new record for the flora of India. Surprisingly, the species (previously known as Arenaria balfouriana W.W.Sm.) was erroneously considered to be a synonym of Stellaria depauperata Edgew. After examining protologues, fresh specimens and herbarium specimens housed in BSD, CAL and DD, the authors have resolved this taxonomic confusion and provided a new combination and lectotype for Arenaria balfouriana. Additionally, Stellaria depauperata, illegitimately combined under Arenaria, is resurrected and recognised as a distinct species.