Phelipanche chionistrae (Orobanchaceae): a new holoparasitic species from Cyprus

The new species Phelipanche chionistrae Ratzel, Hand, Christodoulou & Uhlich (Orobanchaceae) is described from Chionistra, the highest summit of the Troodos range in Cyprus. Morphological data strongly suggest affinities to the Phelipanche rosmarina complex, predominantly West Mediterranean taxa, and Phelipanche olbiensis (Coss.) Carlon et al. The new taxon can be distinguished by a combination of characters such as general colouration, structure of calyx and type of indumentum. Also, it has a different ecology being restricted to a high-montane serpentinophytic coenosis. Currently, only a few populations of the taxon, which is a parasite mainly on the Cypriot endemic Alyssum troodi Boiss. (and possibly other serpentinophilous species), are known. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria it should be assessed as "Near Threatened".