First record of Malephora purpurocrocea (Aizoaceae, Ruschioideae) for the Argentinean Flora

Abstract

The genus Malephora is native to South Africa. Due to its high adaptability, M. purpurocrocea is the most widespread species of the genus, cultivated as ornamental, in arid and semi-arid environments of the Argentinean Patagonia. In this contribution, several spontaneous populations of M. purpurocrocea are reported for the first time for Argentina. The species was observed and collected in different environments in the provinces of Neuquén, Río Negro, and Chubut. A detailed description of the species, distribution and habitat, common names, uses, and a key to the genera of Aizoaceae present in Argentina are included. Due to the lack of detailed studies on the morphology of this species, a series of field photographs and details of microscopic structures are also presented.