Towards a monophyletic classification of Cardueae: restoration of the genus Lophiolepis (= Cirsium p.p.) and new circumscription of Epitrachys

Abstract

Abstract Using molecular data and representative species coverage, we confirmed the monophyly of Cirsium sect. Eriolepis and, therefore, we propose to treat it as a separate genus (Lophiolepis). Besides, based on molecular and morphological evidence we segregate Cirsium italicum into the separate genus Epitrachys, sister to a large clade including Carduus, Cirsium s.l. and several allied genera. The name of a new hybrid genus (Lophiocirsium) is also published. Overall, 129 new combinations in Lophiolepis one in Epitrachys and one in Lophiocirsium are proposed.