Descriptions of a new species, validation of a name, and elevation of a variety in Iris (Iridaceae) from China

Iris cariciformis Z. Z. Zhang & G. X. Zhang, sp. nov. from China is described and illustrated. This species grows on cliff faces or open slopes in the central Qinling Mountains. Morphologically, I. cariciformis is similar to I. dabashanensis but can be distinguished by its longer perianth tube and ellipsoidal capsules with a long beak.

Furthermore, this study facilitates the valid publication of Iris fujianensis. Phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast DNA sequences confirms the placement of the former within I. series Chinenses, while the latter is inferred as sister to I. speculatrix. Simultaneously, a new combination, Iris valida (S. S. Chien) Z. Z. Zhang, H. T. Li & T. Y. Zuo, comb. et stat. nov., is proposed.