(Ird) The African Genus Crocosmia: Journal of South African Botany

https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/item/335792#page/469/mode/1up

(clo Department of Botany, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch 7600, R.S.A.)

ABSTRACT

Herbarium material, and living material of some of the species, were examined for this revision of Crocosmia Planchon, a small genus of the Iridaceae closely re- lated to Tritonia and Chasmanthe. The genus is endemic in Africa south of the equa- tor and is concentrated in the Republic of South Africa where seven of its nine species occur. Illustrated descriptions of the species, their geographical distribution and synonymy, and a key to the species are provided. One species, C. fucata, which stands midway between Crocosmia and Chasmanthe, is now transferred to Crocos- mia. The well-known horticultural hybrid C. crocosmiiflora, is also described.

The relationships of Crocosmia with Tritonia and Chasmanthe are discussed and reasons are given why Crocosmia should remain separate from Tritonia with which it was often combined, and be accepted as a valid genus.