Taxonomic notes on Centaurea persica (Asteraceae, Cardueae-Centaureinae)

A taxonomic review of Centaurea persica Boiss. was performed. Three varieties are recognized and one of them is reported here as a new record for Iran: C. persica var. multijuga Bornm. Three lectotypes are designated and one lectotype from previous lectotypifications is rejected. The recognized taxa, the relevant synonyms, type details, examined specimen lists, full descriptions and a taxonomic key to the varieties of this species are provided. In addition, the geographic distributions of all varieties are presented and mapped. Finally, images of the type specimens of all taxa and photos of the taxa in their natural habitats and related fields are provided.