A survey of the genus Festuca L. (Poaceae) in Italy. I. The species of the summit flora in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines and Apuan Alps

Abstract

Based on own extensive collections and field studies as well as on the material preserved in the relevant herbaria, the genus Festuca in the summit areas of two of the three districts of the N Apennines is revised. Sixteen species with three subspecies are recognized; of these, one species, F. riccerii, is described as new to science; F. halleri subsp. yvestii and F. billyi are reported for the first time from Italy, F. trichophylla subsp. Asperifolia, F. cinerea and F. gracilior for the first time from the N Apennines. A key to all taxa is provided; for each taxon a description and data on its distribution as well as ecology including phytosociology are given.