A NEW SPECIES OF ASTRAGALUS SECT. HYPOGLOTTIDEI (FABACEAE) FROM IRAN

Astragalus kazempourii is described as a new species from Firuzkuh in Tehran province, Iran. Morphological data and phylogenetic analyses of the nrDNA internal (ITS) and external transcribed spacer (ETS) regions places this species within sect. Hypoglottidei as sister of Astragalus parvarensis. The new species differs morphologically from A. parvarensis by having a short stem densely covered with basifixed hairs, short peduncles and a long calyx. A distribution map of the new species is provided and the habitat condition of the taxon and close relatives, as well as the conservation status of A. kazempourii are discussed. The phylogenetic analyses conducted also support the recent transfer of Astragalus bojnurdensis from A. sect. Brachylobium to sect. Hypoglottidei, which was in accordance with the morphological characters of this species.