Ficinia pygmaea is not conspecific with F. limosa, and a description of a new species of Ficinia (Cyperaceae) from South Africa

Abstract

The taxonomy of several species allied to Ficinia pygmaea, that are perennials of small stature (typically under 100 mm) and with a capitate inflorescence, is contentious. Recent authors have considered Ficinia pygmaea to be conspecific with F. limosa, and these South African taxa have been thought to be allied to the Ethiopian taxon F. clandestina. Examination of herbarium specimens and further field studies supports recognition of F. pygmaea and F. limosa at species rank. An additional allied species, putatively named F. echinata in several herbaria, occurring in the Cape Agulhas area, is described. Ficinia echinata is a rigid tufted plant growing at the edges of coastal salt pans and is distinguished by its sharply pointed leaves and bract apices, and its glume morphology. The interpretation of the morphology of F. echinata as intermediate between F. pygmaea and F. limosa had influenced the decision to merge the two taxa.