Descriptions of a new species, validation of a name, and elevation of a variety in Iris (Iridaceae) from China

<i>Iris cariciformis</i> Z.Z.Zhang & G.X.Zhang, <b>sp. nov</b>. from China is described and illustrated. This species grows on cliff faces or open slopes in the central Qinling Mountains. Morphologically, <i>I. cariciformis</i> is similar to <i>I. dabashanensis</i> but can be distinguished by its longer perianth tube and ellipsoidal capsules with a long beak. Furthermore, this study facilitates the valid publication of <i>Iris fujianensis</i>. Phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast DNA sequences confirms the placement of the former within <i>I. series Chinenses</i>, while the latter is inferred as sister to <i>I. speculatrix</i>. Simultaneously, a new combination, <i>Iris valida</i> (S.S.Chien) Z.Z.Zhang, H.T.Li & T.Y.Zuo, <b>comb. et stat. nov</b>., is proposed.