Geographic variation in the Hebe albicans complex (Plantaginaceae) — morphology and flavonoid chemistry

Abstract

Variation in morphology and flavonoid chemistry is appraised in populations of H. albicans, H. recurva, and the tag name entity H. “glaucophylla NW Nelson”, which together comprise the H. albicans complex. Morphological comparisons include a morphometric study of leaf variation. Comparisons in flavonoid chemistry are made with several other species of “Subcarnosae” and small‐leaved “Occlusae”. It is proposed that members of the H. albicans complex be included within a single species, H. albicans, and that no subspecific taxa be recognised. Hebe albicans, as treated here, is a glaucous‐leaved shrub of rocky places in NW Nelson. Its has a decumbent to upright habit, and variable leaf shape. Two chromosome numbers (2n = 40, 80) have been recorded.

Keywords:

• Hebe albicans
• H. recurva
• H. glaucophylla
• Plantaginaceae
• flavonoids
• New Zealand flora