A new circumscription for Lysinema ciliatum (Ericaceae: Styphelioideae: Epacrideae) and reinstatement of L. pentapetalum
THIELE, K.R.
Lysinema ciliatum has long been regarded as a widespread and variable species. Occurring throughout much of the South-West Botanical Province of Western Australia on a variety of substrates, it is morphologically variable in foliar and floral characters, with up to eleven morphotypes informally recognised as putatively distinct taxa following a preliminary assessment in the early 1990s. Examination of material from throughout the species’ range shows that most of the currently recognised informal morphotypes comprise a single, variable species which cannot be adequately divided into taxa. A second, distinct species is restricted to the south coast of Western Australia, approximately between Albany and Esperance, with a disjunct outlier east of Perth. Comparison with types shows that the correct name for the widespread taxon is Lysinema pentapetalum R.Br., while the mostly southern-coastal taxon matches the type of L. ciliatum. Descriptions and distribution maps are provided for these taxa, and a key to all species of Lysinema provided.
