I.C. Hedge

A dwarf suffruticose much branched herb, c. 10 cm high with a ± dense villous indumentum. Leaves c. 15 x 18 mm, cordate-reniform; petiole 10-15 mm. Verticillasters condensed into a ± loose head or spike. Calyx c. 7 mm. Corolla c. 12 mm, white with violet spots. Nutlets c. 1.2 x 0.6 mm, brown, depressed tuberculate with a c. 2 mm areole.

Fl. Per.: April.

Holotype: Afghanistan, Nangarhar, Torkham, 700 m, Hedge, Wendelbo & Ekberg W. 7437 (GB). Isotype (E!).

This is a little-known species with affinity to Nepeta griffithii. The type (and only, Afghan, specimen) was collected on the Afghan side of the Khyber pass. Two Pakistan specimens may be the same: Khyber (no further info.), Deane s.n. (K); Khyber pass, Torsapper, ann. 1897, Halcro Johnston s.n. (E). Better material is needed.