From sheets to solutions: Unraveling the Pedicularis sudetica complex

During a recent week-long visit to the ALA herbarium, Dr. Bruce Robart, a visiting researcher from the University of Pittsburgh and the author of the Pedicularis treatment for the Flora of North America, conducted an in-depth examination of specimens belonging to the Pedicularis sudetica complex. His visit was part of an ongoing effort to resolve longstanding taxonomic questions within this morphologically variable group. Drawing on his extensive expertise, Bruce meticulously reviewed historical collections, compared morphological traits across specimens, and engaged in collaborative discussions with herbarium staff. His work not only contributed valuable insights into species boundaries and variation within the complex but also highlighted the critical role of herbarium collections in advancing botanical research. He also sampled specimens for molecular sequencing and biogeographic analysis.