Pimpinella saxifraga, L.

16. P. saxifraga L. View in CoL , Sp. PI. 263 (1753) View Cited Treatment

(incl. P. alpestris (Sprengel) Schultes , P. dissecta Retz. , P. laconica Halâcsy ).

Somewhat pubescent (rarely completely glabrous) perennial up to 60 cm. Stock at flowering time usually without sterile rosettes. Stem usually terete, almost or quite solid, branched, almost leafless above. Lower leaves usually with 3-7 pairs of segments which vary from simple, ovate, to 2-pinnatisect, with linear lobes. Rays 6-25. Bracts absent, rarely 1-4; bracteoles absent, rarely 5-8. Petals white, rarely pinkish or purplish. Fruit 2-2-5 mm, broadly ovoid; ridges not prominent. 2zz = 40. Most o f Europe, except the extreme south and most o f the islands. Al Au Be Br Bu Cz Da Fa Ga Ge G r Hb He Ho Hs Hu It Ju No Po Rm Rs (N, B, C, W, K, E) Sa Su Tu. Very variable in size, pubescence, leaf-dissection and flower-colour. This variation has received diverse taxonomic treatments, two species, each with several subspecies, being recognized by some authors, while others do not even recognize subspecies. Rather distinct, ecologically specialized, local variants also occur and some resemble 13 so closely that they can be identified with certainty only if ripe fruit is present.

Evidence about the status of the various taxa is at present conflicting and inadequate, and further investigation on a continental scale is necessary before a more detailed account of this polymorphic species can be given.