First record of Cistus salviifolius L. (Cistaceae) for the flora of the Republic of North Macedonia

The watershed of river Crn Drim in south-western parts of North Macedonia (Galičica and Jablanica mountains with the Ohrid valley in between) are under the influence of transitional mild continental to modified (sub)Mediterranean climate. These conditions support the development of rich flora and vegetation with presence of many relict and endemic species. Such is Cistus salviifolius L. (Sageleaf Rockrose) of the family Cistaceae, a species with Circum–Mediterranean distribution. This paper presents the first record of this species in North Macedonia, in the vicinity of Ohrid town (Trojani area), about 60km away from its nearest locality in Albania. The flora and vegetation associated with Cistus salviifolius in Trojani area are significantly different from the studied ones in which this species thrives in Northern Greece. Most of the recorded individuals develop on eroded regosols on silicate bedrock (phyllitic schists). Considering the small extent of occurrence in North Macedonia (62 ha), the threat status of Cistus salviifolius was assessed as Endangered [EN B1a+2a]. Future biogeographical studies supported by molecular analysis can explore distribution pathways, as well as past and present ecological conditions in the watershed of river Crn Drim.