Some Taxonomic Changes in Syringa L. (Oleaceae), including a Revision of Series Pubescentes

Abstract

A number of species of Syringa are reviewed, and series Pubescentes is revised. At infraspecific rank, the following new combinations in Syringa from Asia are proposed: S. komarowii subsp. refexa, S. oblata subsp. dilatata, S. reticulata subsp. amurensis, S. reticulata subsp. pekinensis, and S. pubescens subsp. microphylla var. potaninii. Identification keys are presented. preparation of an account of Syringa for the forthcoming English version of the Flora of China, combined, for the senior author, with the preparation of an account for the European Garden Flora, has led to a review of the genus and a reassessment of the appropriate rank for some of the previously recognized species or varieties. following are the taxonomic and nomenclatural consequences. A. SYRINGA KOMAROWII Syringa komarowii Schneider subsp. reflexa (Schneider) P. S. Green & M. C. Chang, stat. nov. Basionym: Syringa refexa Schneider, Repert. Spec. Nov. Regni Veg. 9: 80. 1910. SYNTYPES: C.-China. Hupeh: S9000', Henry 6819 (K); W. Hupeh, Wilson 2078 (K). Although McKelvey (1928: 77) stated, The relationship of Syringa komarowi to S. reflexa Schneider is exceedingly close, and it is possible that at some future time S. komarowi may be classified as an extreme form of the Hupeh [Hubei] plant, it was not until 1990 that the two were formally united at the varietal rank (Chang & Chen, 1990: 35). However, while bearing the morphological differences in mind, because S. komarowii and S. refexa occupy distinct geographical areas, the former in southern Gansu, southern Shaanxi, Sichuan, and northern Yunnan, the latter in western Hubei and northeastern Sichuan, we believe that subspecies is the appropriate infraspecific catagory. They may be distinguished as follows: la. Corolla lobes somewhat erect; inflorescence usually + compact subsp. komarowii lb. Corolla lobes spreading; inflorescence somewhat pyramidal, often interrupted subsp. refexa