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SummarySymphyotrichum vahlii (Gaudich.) G. L. Nesom (Compositae: Astereae: Symphyotrichinae) is described and illustrated, and the species is provided with an expanded synonymy that includes type citations, known types, and supplementary comments. Notes are provided on cultivation and propagation. Comments are also made on the historical collections representing this species, both as types and early collections, and relating these to early circumnavigations. The likelihood that Thinobia araucana Phil., of the monotypic Thinobia Phil., is this species is also discussed.

Summary Fritillaria sororum J. Persson & K. Persson from the Tauros mountains in southern Turkey is illustrated; its relationship with other species in the area is discussed.

Fritillaria usuriensis Maxim. is illustrated; its cultivation in China for Chinese traditional medicine, and at Kew are described.

The taxonomy, conservation status and cultivation requirements of Helichrysum orientale (L.) Gaertn., are discussed. A description, colour plate and black and white line drawings of the dissections of this species are given. The problems with accepting so-called ' Vaillant ' combinations and generic names are discussed.