A Revision of the Genus Frasera

The present study was undertaken to determine the status of the genus Frasera. In recent years it has received various treatments in the numerous local manuals and floras; certain authors have considered it a portion of the more polymorphic and widespread genus Swertia, others have regarded it as a distinct generic unit, whereas still others have segregated it into several smaller genera. Sincere appreciation is due the curators of the herbaria of the University of California, Field Museum of Natural History, Gray Herbarium of Harvard University, and the Los Angeles Museum, for the loan of material necessary in this study. For the use of the excellent library and herbarium of the Missouri Botanical Garden, especial thanks are due the Director, Dr. George T. Moore. The writer desires to express his appreciation to Dr. J. M. Greenman, Curator of the Herbarium of that institution, and to Dr. Mildred E. Mathias, Research Assistant, who have so generously given their advice from time to time.