Celmisia spedeniiG. Simpson, an ultramafic endemic, andCelmisia markii, sp. nov., from southern New Zealand

Abstract

The taxonomic status of Celmisia spedenii G. Simpson is examined. Plants from the type locality at West Dome in Southland are morphologically and ecologically distinct from plants in Fiordland and north-west Otago and are here recognised as two species, contra Given (1975). Celmisia spedenii G. Simpson occurs only on ultramafic soils in northern Southland, and is currently the sole taxon endemic to ultramafic outcrops in the southern half of the South Island. Celmisia markii is described as a new species. It is confined to areas above treeline in western Fiordland and northwest Otago, between Haast River and Caswell Sound.