Dracophyllum marmoricola and Dracophyllum ophioliticum (Ericaceae), two new species from north‐west Nelson, New Zealand

Abstract

Two new species, Dracophyllum marmoricola and Dracophyllum ophioliticum, are described and illustrated. D. marmoricola is compared with D. kirkii with which it has been confused and with D. recurvum which shows a similar inflorescence and flower structure. It is similar to D. kirkii and D. recurvum but differs in growth habit, inflorescence, and flower characters. D. marmoricola has a restricted distribution and is endemic to the northwest Nelson area and known from six localities, all on marble. Dracophyllum ophioliticum is compared with D.filifolium and D. longifolium var. longifolium with which it has been confused. It is known from three sites and is endemic to ultramafic areas in the Cobb and adjacent Takaka valleys. D. ophioliticum is similar to D. filifolium but differs in growth habit and leaf and flower characters.

Keywords:

• Ericaceae
• Dracophyllum marmoricola
• Dracophyllum ophioliticum
• new species
• taxonomy
• alpine flora
• marble
• serpentinite
• New Zealand flora