A Synopsis of Pterostemon (Iteaceae), a Group Endemic to Mexico

Abstract

The genus Pterostemon Schauer (Iteaceae), is a group of three species restricted in distribution to Mexico. It includes: Pterostemon mexicanus Schauer, P. rotundifolius Ramírez, and P. bravoanus J. Jiménez-Ram. & Martínez Gordillo. On the basis of field observations and herbarium specimens, we review the morphology (vegetative and reproductive), and distribution to give an updated taxonomic treatment for the genus. Additionally the utility of morphological characters is evaluated for taxomic use, and detailed taxonomic descriptions and ecological associations are given for each species.