Studies in Euphorbiaceae A.L.Juss., sens. lat. I.* A revision of Amperea Adr. Juss. (Acalyphoideae Ascherson, Amphereae Muell. Arg.)

Abstract

The genus Amperea Adr. Juss. contains eight species, six of which are confined to the south-west of Western Australia. The seventh occurs only in central Australia while the eighth ranges from central Queensland to Tasmania and extends to the south-east of South Australia. A. simulans, from Western Australia, is described as new, and A. xiphoclada var. papillata and A. xiphoclada var. pedicellata from New South Wales are recognised as new varieties; A. xiphoclada var. pedicellata is probably now extinct. Lectotypes are chosen for A. micrantha and A. volubilis. All species are described in detail and a key to identify them is provided. The diagnostic relevance of a range of attributes of the genus is reviewed as is its classificatory history.

* The first of a projected series of revisions of genera traditionally included in Stenolobeae Benth., and others related to them, which are intended to form the basis of future Flora of Australia accounts.