THE TAXONOMY, HISTORY, AND DISTRIBUTION OF LINARIA DALMATICA

Abstract

The taxonomy of Linaria dalmatica (L.) Mill. is discussed and a lectotype is selected, viz plant-number XII.10, Linaria latifolia Dalmatica, magno flore Bauh., in the Joachim Burser herbarium, which is preserved in Uppsala. A comprehensive description of the species is given. Two varieties are included: var. dalmatica, native from Yugoslavia to Iran, and var. macedonica (Griseb.) Vandas, indigenous to the mountains of southern Yugoslavia. Photographs of the type specimens of each are presented. L. grandiflora Desf. is shown to be a synonym of var. dalmatica, and Vandas is the correct authority for var. macedonica. Var. macedonica probably has never been cultivated but var. dalmatica was under cultivation at least as early as 1594 in Europe. It is now cultivated in Asia and North America as well as in Europe. Although probably introduced into North America by 1894, the earliest voucher specimen is dated 1920. Presently growing in 15 states in the U.S.A. and six provinces in Canada, var. dalmatica has escaped from cultivation and has spread as a weed in very diverse habitats, especially in coarse-textured soils west of the 100th meridian.