Abstract

A new species of Epipactis from Sicily is described and illustrated. It shows closer relationships mainly with E. distans, species widespread in northern Mediterranean territory from SE Spain to N Croazia and also some Central and Northern European territory, with an isolated population in N Calabria. Numerous morphological features, as well as ecological requirement and phenology allow to distinguish very well the two taxa at specific level. Besides, the conservation status, habitat and a distribution map of this new species are presented.