Neotypification of Ceropegia Palustris and Lyonia Maritima (apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae)

Ceropegia palustris Pursh and Lyonia maritima Elliott (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) are currently recognized as synonyms of Funastrum angustifolium (Pers.) Liede & Meve. The diminutive vine, one of the most readily recognizable taxa among a number of taxonomically difficult climbing milkweeds in the southeastern United States, occurs primarily in swamps, hammocks, and salt marshes. A neotype is proposed here for C. palustris, which will automatically also serve as the type of L. maritima, as Elliot was well-aware that the two were synonymous. Additional relevant historical specimens of interest housed at BM, CHARL, and PH are also discussed.