Abstract
Aconitum tanguticum (MAXIM.) STAPF is a scapose species growing in the alpine zone of central China. Lectotypification of A. tanguticum is made and flowers, especially nectary blades, of this species are illustrated in this paper. Nectary spurs were short but well developed and copious secretion of nectar was confirmed in the field. Nectar-robbing by bumblebees was also observed in the field. The subterranean organ of A. tanguticum was a perennial, branched tuber. Central Asian A. zeravschanicum STEINB. and Siberian A. popovii STEINB. & SCHISCH. ex SIPLIV. also carry perennial, branched tubers. Having perennial tubers is unique in subgenus Aconitum because most species possess annual tubers. Possibility of the establishment of a new section including these three species is pointed out. An undescribed taxon belonging to this group is preliminarily mentioned here. Phylogenetic significance of the new section between the subgenera Lycoctonum and Aconitum is also suggested.
