Recognition of a new species of Pomaderris (Rhamnaceae) in eastern Victoria based on morphological and chemical data

Abstract

Pomaderris prunifolia A.Cunn. ex Fenzl is a variable and widespread species in south eastern Australia. Within the current circumscription of this species is a variant recognised by its distinctive leaf morphology. This study has determined that this variant should be recognized as a separate species, based on both leaf morphology and phenolics. The study of morphology employed both conventional hand measured methods and landmark shape analysis. The new species, Pomaderris briagolensis Messina is described and illustrated, and its conservation status discussed.