Abstract
Previous work on Gentianella and related genera is reviewed, particularly the taxonomic history of the New Zealand gentians and their generic placement. Phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequences shows the New Zealand gentians belong in Gentianella. The recently described Australasian genus Chionogentias is preceded by earlier names applied to South American species that belong in a Southern Hemisphere clade. Thirty species are recognised, including seven new species (G. angustifolia, G. calcis, G. decum‐bens, G. luteoalba, G. impressinervia, G. scopulo‐rum, and G. stellata), and one species (G. magnifica), raised from varietal status. The identity of G. patula is clarified and the specific status of G. amabilis is affirmed. Thirteen subspecies are recognised, including a new subspecies within G. astonii (subsp. arduana), and four within a new calcicole species G. calcis (subspp. calcis, waipara, manahune, taiko). New subspecies are also made in G. corymbifera (subsp. gracilis), G. montana (subsp. ionostigma), and G. chathamica (subsp. nemorosa). G. montana var. stolonifera is the only existing variety this treatment continues to recognise. Four previously recognised species are reduced to synonymy (G. gracilifolia, G. matthewsii, G. tereticaulis, and G. townsonii). Descriptions and keys are provided for all species and subspecies recognised. Evidence is limited, but Gentianella appears to have arrived in New Zealand from South America either once or twice, and has probably dispersed once from New Zealand to Australia. The place of the first establishment of Gentianella in New Zealand appears to be in the southern half of the South Island. An initial radiation in the lower South Island was followed by northward range extensions and dispersal events. A second radiation occurred in the Nelson and Marlborough mountains.
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