A multivariate morphometrics study of the Solidago altissima complex and S. canadensis (Aateraceae: Astereae)

Abstract

The Solidago altissima complex stretches across much of North America on the prairies and in the eastern deciduous forest. A multivariate morphometric analysis including 28 vegetative and floral traits scored on 162 specimens was performed to assess the classification of the complex in eastern North America proposed by Semple (2014). Discriminant analysis indicated support for recognizing the following taxa: Solidago altiplanities, Solidago altissima vars. altissima, gilvocanescens, and pluricephala, S. canadensis vars. canadensis and hargeri, and S. juliae. A lectotype is designated for Solidago pruinosa Greene, which is a synonym of S. altissima var. gilvocanescens.