Spaulding, D.D. and T.W. Barger 2016. Keys, distribution, and taxonomic notes for the Lobelias (Lobelia , Campanulaceae) of Alabama and adjacent states. Phytoneuron 2016-76: 1–60. Published 29 November 2016. ISSN 2153 733X KEYS, DISTRIBUTION, AND TAXONOMIC NOTES FOR THE LOBELIAS (LOBELIA , CAMPANULACEAE) OF ALABAMA AND ADJACENT STATES DANIEL D. SPAULDING Anniston Museum of Natural History 800 Museum Drive/P.O. Box 1587 Anniston, Alabama 36202
[email protected] T.WAYNE BARGER Alabama Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources State Lands Division, Natural Heritage Section 64 North Union Street Montgomery, Alabama 36130
[email protected] ABSTRACT The genus Lobelia (Campanulaceae) is represented by 22 species and one hybrid in the five-state region of Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Lobelia rogersii , formerly regarded as a hybrid, is recognized here as a distinct species. Keys, distribution maps, photographs, and taxonomic notes are provided for each species. North American species of Lobelia are annual or perennial herbs with alternate, simple leaves and conspicuous blue, white, red or purplish flowers (Fig. 1). The corolla is tubular, often fenestrate, bilabiate, and five lobed (Fig. 2). The upper two lobes are usually erect and the lower three lobes are typically fanned out. Five stamens are united to create a diagnostic matchstick-like structure. The longer, lower portion forms the filament tube and the upper, darker part is the anther tube (Fig. 3). The style passes through the center of the structure and the 2-lobed stigma is exserted at the top. (1a) Photo: Wayne Barger (1b) Photo: Dan Spaulding Figure 1.