A New Basic Chromosome Number inPelargonium(Geraniaceae)

Abstract
A somatic chromosome number of eight is described in Pelargonium elongatum (Cav.) Salisb. This is the lowest chromosome number reported in the genus, and species with 2n = 16, 18, 20, 22, previously regarded as diploids, may have had a polyploid origin. This finding is discussed with reference to the miniature variety « Kleine Liebling », which has 2n = 9, and has previously been described as a true haploid.