Stachys istanbulensis (Lamiaceae) a new species from Turkey: evidence from morphological, micromorphological and molecular analysis

Stachys species show high morphological diversity and their main diagnostic characteristics are calyx and corolla length, ratio of tooth to calyx, and verticillaster arrangement. This manuscript describes and provides detailed morphological, micromorphological and molecular information about a new species, Stachys istanbulensis Ö. Güner, and its close relatives. The new species resembles S. recta complex, but is distinguished by its procumbent flowering stems, shorter calyx and teeth, congested verticillasters, creamy yellow corolla and oblong-obovoid nutlets.