Morphological data indicate the subspecies of Leionema elatius (Rutaceae) are not conspecific and both should be treated as species.

Abstract

Morphological data show that the two subspecies currently assigned to Leionema elatius (Benth.) Paul G.Wilson (Rutaceae), namely L. elatius subsp. elatius and L. elatius subsp. beckleri (F.Muell.) Paul G.Wilson, are not conspecific and both should be treated as species. Leionema elatius subsp. beckleri is reinstated to the rank of species as L. beckleri (F.Muell.) I.Telford & J.J.Bruhl. The distributions of both species are mapped and their conservation status discussed. Images comparing the morphological attributes of the two species and a table comparing selected attributes of the species and the newly described L. praetermissum P.R.Alvarez & Duretto are presented. Modifications to a key to species of Leionema found in New South Wales and southeastern Queensland are provided.