Taiwania 63(4): 366-388, 2018 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2018.63.366 Seven New Species of Onosma L. (Boraginaceae) with emphasis on their habitats in Iran Ahmad Reza MEHRABIAN1,*, Valiolah MOZAFFARIAN2 1. Department of Plant Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Life sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, GC, Tehran, Iran. 2. Department of Plant Botany, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Tehran, Iran. *Corresponding author’s e-mail:
[email protected] (Manuscript received 14 February 2018; accepted 17 September 2018; online published 1 November 2018) ABSTRACT: In this paper, seven new species of Onosma are described and illustrated. Besides, a diagnostic key is provided for new species. Hence, based on a wide range of the assessments conducted, the mentioned samples are considered as distinct species when compared with the previously introduced species in the region. Thus, it strengthens our justification as to whether they are new species. Our argument for mentioned novelties is significant differences in the most important morphological and micro- morphological characteristics following trichome type, shape and size of cauline and basal leaves, shape and size of calyx, annulus hairs, shape and size of corolla, nutlets morphology, anther length as well connection and their exertion as well pollen type and size compared to their nearest species. Besides, the recent novelties are confirmed by obviously ecological differentiations. KEY WORDS: Boraginaceae, Diagnostic key, Iran, New species, Nutlets morphology, Onosma, Pollen grain, Trichome type. INTRODUCTION USSR put far less emphasis on the shape of trichomes and tubercles. Also, Cohen (2011), Cecchi et al., (2011) Onosma L. is an old-world (Cecchi et al.