A New Species of Lechea (Cistaceae) from Peninsular Florida

Wilbur, Robert

A dozen years ago a strikingly different Lechea was noted (Rhodora 63: 117. 1961.) among collections from southern Florida. It then seemed unwise, however, to describe the population that they represent as a distinct new taxon since the specimens available were not as complete or mature as would be desired in proposing a new entity in such a perplexing and technical genus. However, additional collections from southern Florida and the low-keyed but persistent hints from Dr. Olga Lakela that something wasn't quite satisfactory with available treatments finally prodded me into taking another look. Her own collections have largely eliminated one of my reservations about formally proposing a new taxon, although additional collections from throughout the growing season are still very much to be desired. Practically nothing is known of the plants except in the fruiting stage and although that is the most important stage for the accurate identification of members of this genus, it still would be most desirable to know something more about the vegetative features of this species. Leaves in this species are almost completely lacking by the time fruits are ripening. Still it seems probable that more of a stimulus for additional collections of this taxon and of the other highly distinctive representatives of the genus in peninsular Florida will be forthcoming if the taxon is formally proposed now than if we wait for more collections.

A New Species of Lechea (Cistaceae) from Peninsular Florida

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