Wisnev 2018 (Article) Billbergia

The Confusing Tale of Billbergia saundersii and Billbergia chlorosticta – What is the Correct Name?

Author(s):—M.A. Wisnev

Publication:—Die Bromelie pp. . (2018)

Abstract:—Billbergia saundersii W. Bull is reasonably well known, while most probably haven’t heard of B. chlorosticta Saunders, which has almost always been treated as conspecific (the same species). So you might be surprised to learn Smith & Downs (1979) treated Billbergia chlorosticta as the correct name for this taxon, and various leading plant authorities still do (or did until recently). This article examines which name is correct, with some very surprising new information and conclusions.

Taxonomy:—Billbergia saundersiana Considered a name of uncertain application (p.123).—Neoregelia chlorosticta Neotype: Icon, Nidularium chlorostictum E. Morren (K). (p.123).