Libertia cranwelliae


Libertia cranwelliae is a species of flowering plant in the family Iridaceae. The plant was first described by Dan Blanchon, Brian Grant Murray and John E. Braggins in 2002, and is native to New Zealand.

Etymology

The species was named after New Zealand botanist Lucy Cranwell.

Taxonomy

The first known specimens of the plant were collected in 1824 and identified as Libertia ixioides. L. cranwelliae was identified as a distinct species in 2002 due to its elongated rhizomes, smaller ovaries, alongside DNA and molecular evidence.

Description

Libertia cranwelliae consists of leafy fans that emerge from runners. Styloid crystals are found in the leaves of L. cranwelliae.

Distribution and habitat

Libertia cranwelliae is endemic to New Zealand, known to only occur in the Awatere and Kopuapounamu river valley areas of the East Cape of the North Island.