Delimitation and revision of the genus Thymbra (Lamiaceae)

The importance of comprehensive species sampling in phylogenetics and revisions of taxonomically complex groups is outlined using an example from Lamiaceae. To render the genus Thymbra into a well circumscribed, natural and monophyletic group, three species are transferred from Satureja to Thymbra. A run down of the classification history is provided along with an updated generic circumscription for Thymbra. Important diagnostic characters are discussed and a key to the species of Thymbra is presented. Notes on both tvpes and distribution are provided for each species accompanied by illustration of representative herbarium specimens. Finally, Thymus cephalotos, a name currently placed in the synonymy of Thymbra capitata, is typified to fix its exclusion from Thymbra.