A revision of infrageneric classification in Astelia Banks & Sol. ex R.Br. (Asteliaceae)

Abstract

Systematic investigations and phylogenetic analyses have indicated that Astelia, as currently circumscribed, is paraphyletic, with Collospermum nested within it. Further, A. subgenus Astelia is polyphyletic, and A. subgenera Asteliopsis and Tricella are paraphyletic, as currently circumscribed. Revision of the subgeneric classification of Astelia is warranted to ensure classification accurately reflects the evolutionary history of these taxa. Collospermum is relegated to synonymy within Astelia. Astelia is dioecious or polygamodioecious, with a superior ovary, anthers dorsi- or basifixed, pistillodes or pistils that have a single short or poorly defined style, a 3 lobed stigma, and fleshy uni- or trilocular fruit with funicular hairs that are poorly to well developed. Astelia subgenus Collospermum (Skottsb.) Birch is described. A key to Astelia sections is provided. Astelia hastata Colenso, A. montana Seem., and A. microsperma Colenso pro parte are resurrected and the new combination A. samoense (Skottsb.) Birch, comb. nov. is made.