Hybridization among three Cirsium (Asteraceae) species and important evidence for three new hybrids from Turkey

In this study, three new hybrids from the genus Cirsium are described for the first time. Cirsium ×nezaketiae Yıldız, Dirmenci & Arabacı, C. ×kelkitensis Yıldız, Arabacı & Dirmenci, and C. ×erzincanicum Yıldız, Dirmenci & Arabacı are investigated in detail morphologically, palynologically, and molecularly. The hybrid individuals were detected on field trips due to their intermediate morphological characters. Their morphological properties were analyzed to compare with their parents. The pollen grain morphologies of the hybrids and their allies were investigated using light and a scanning electron microscope. The pollen grains were radially symmetrical, isopolar, trizonocolporate, and with echinate or scabrate sculpturing. The tectum is psilate/punctate, microreticulate, or ornate in sculpture.