Compilation
Nicolsonia barbata

Two varieties of Desmodium barbatum described by J. G. Baker in J.B. 20: 69 (1882), var. emirnense and var. nummulariifolium from Madagascar, were assigned to the synonymy of var. dimorphum by Schindler (F.R. 23: 359 (1927)). From the descriptions this disposition seems reasonable, but since I have not had the opportunity to examine the types I am simply noting them here. This is a variable taxon and more studies, perhaps cytological and ecological, are needed to determine the basis for much of the variation and to evaluate its importance. Some forms of var. dimorphum resemble some of the American plants now all maintained in var. barbatum. Bogdan 4648, grown experimentally from Brazilian seed, is not much out of place here. On the other hand, three collections from T5, B. D. Burtt 3564, 3666 and Greenway & Polhill 11720, seem to have characters in the calyx and fruit sufficiently distinct to warrant recognition. However, until the validity and relationships of the varieties now maintained in Desmodium barbatum are established it seems best only to call attention to these interesting collections and to leave their possible description until more material has been studied.