The Scilla plumbeapuzzle—present status of the genus Scillasensu lato in southern Africa and description of Spetaea lachenaliiflora, a new genus and species of Massonieae (Hyacinthaceae)

We have studied a taxon from South Africa that has been hidden for more than 150 years within Scilla plumbea(Hyacinthaceae). However, phylogenetic reconstruction based on trnL-Fdata, morphological evidence (including seed characters), and karyology suggest independent status. DNA data place it close to the Daubenyaalliance but not close to any particular genus of Massonieae previously included within Scillas.l. Unique characters of seeds indicate that this taxon does not belong to the Daubenyaclade. Analysis of the iconotype of Scilla plumbeaLindl., on the other hand, reveals morphological details suggesting membership in the Scilla natalensisclade (= genus Merwillain the recent classification of Speta). Merwilla, however, occupies a basal position among Massonieae and is not related to the Daubenyaclade. Based on all data, we describe this taxon as a new genus and species Spetaea lachenaliifloraWetschnig & Pfosser.