DIONYSIA SPLENDENS (PRIMULACEAE), A NEW SPECIES FROM THE FARS PROVINCE OF IRAN

Abstract

Dionysia splendens Alipour, Mehregan & Lidén, sp. nov., from Fars, Iran, is a unique species that cannot be easily accommodated in any hitherto recognised section of the genus and is immediately recognised by its large flowers and pectinate leaves with very broad pale and thick midvein. It agrees with Dionysia cespitosa Duby (Boiss.) in the small flat leaves, stalked inflorescence with large bracts, and few large ellipsoid seeds, but differs in the tubular calyx and large purplish-blue corolla. It is also somewhat reminiscent of Dionysia viva Lidén & Zetterl. in growth habit and inflorescence structure, but that species has large irregularly dentate leaves, yellow corolla and numerous small angular seeds. Dionysia splendens is so far known from a single locality with c.200 mature individuals. An updated key to Dionysia species in the Zagros mountains is provided.