Dimorphism in the Fruits of Plectritis, and Its Taxonomic Implications

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Abstract
The pattern of variation within the genusPlectritis is peculiar in certain respects, a fact which has confused taxonomists in the past. Only after these peculiarities are understood is it possible to see that the genus also varies in ways that are common to other groups. Each species, variety, and minor form exhibits a dimorphism as to fruits, such that some individuals have broad-winged fruits, while others have narrow-winged or essentially wingless fruits. The taxonomic unity of the two forms can be inferred from their systematic occurrence together in the field, and has been demonstrated by planting experiments in which narrow-winged fruits have given rise to plants with broad-winged fruits, and vice versa. Because of failure to recognize the sibling relationship of the two aspects, an essentially double set of names has been published on what is shown to be an artificial basis. Three species are here recognized, and several varieties described, with recombinations of names based on these findings. 5 There is some doubt whether the Chilean plant is identical with ours of North America. However, since the name does not in either case apply to the North American species as here conceived, the matter may be left for future research.

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