New Record of Sarga purpureosericea (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Spangler (Poaceae) for the Flora of Saudi Arabia and second-step lectotypification of the name

During recent botanical expeditions in the northwestern Saudi Arabia, Sarga purpureosericea Spangler was recorded and collected for the first time in the country. This finding enriches Saudi Arabia’s grass flora and highlights the importance of further botanical exploration. We formally include this species in the national flora, supported by a voucher specimen deposited at the University of Porto Herbarium (PO). This record bridges a significant biogeographical gap between eastern Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Additionally, we provide a second-step lectotypification of the name. The original lectotypification, based on specimens housed at the Kew Herbarium (K) and the Missouri Botanical Garden Herbarium (MO), constitutes a first-step designation under Article 9.17 of the ICN. We now designate a second-step lectotype that aligns more precisely with Spangler’s original intent.