Helianthemum sicanorum (Cistaceae), a new species from Sicily

Abstract

Helianthemum sicanorum, an endemic species occurring on calcareous marls near Gela (S Sicily), is described and illustrated. Due to its habit and flower morphology, H. sicanorum shows close relationships with H. kahiricum Del., circumscribed to the semi-arid habitats of northern Africa and the Middle East. H. sicanorum is quite rare and localized on steep slopes facing the sea, where it is a member of thermophilous garigues of the Cisto-Micromerietea class.