Dianthus haematocalyx subsp phitosianus (Caryophyllaceae), a new serpentine endemic from Greece

Dianthus haematocalyx BOISS. & HELDR. subsp. phitosianus CONSTANTINIDIS, a new subspecies from Greece, is described and illustrated. It differs from a ll the related taxa of D. haematocalyx in its decumbent habit, the lanceola te to ovate cauline leaves, and the triangular awns of epicalyx scales. Its chromosome number of 2n = 30 is reported. The new taxon appears to be a na rrow serpentine endemic, growing on dry slopes sparsely covered with vegeta tion, or on gravel and scree close to Aliki settlement and NE Loutraki (Ste rea Ellas). It occupies the southernmost known distribution range of any of its allied taxa. With respect to their distribution and geolithological pr eferences, the plant taxa that occur on serpentine in central Greece may be classified into four main categories.