The leaf flavonoid content in individuals of Armeria maritima originat
ing from populations with contrasted ecogeographical situations and be
longing to seven distinct intraspecific taxa, is highly variable both
quantitatively and qualitatively. Principal component analysis and com
parison of frequency of individual flavonoid profiles show that congru
ence between classical taxonomic units and flavonoid pattern of variat
ion is only circumstantial. The level of variability in flavonoids for
ecogeographical groups of populations decrease in relation to change
in breeding system from xenogamy to autogamy and to strong selection p
ressures (heavy metal toxicity). Populations within ecogeographical gr
oups are significantly distinct for their level of variability.