The Robinson Crusoe (= Juan Fernandez) Islands lie 667 kms west of continental Chile at 33° S latitude. The archipelago consists of two major islands, Isla Robinson Crusoe (= Masatierra), and Isla Marinero Alejandro Selkirk (= Masafuera), separated by 181 kms. A third smaller island, Santa Clara, lies 1 km SW of Isla Robinson Crusoe. In these islands, encompassing only 102 sq. kms., exists a vascular flora of more than 420 species with 127 endemics, including 10 endemic genera and one endemic family (Lactoridaceae, the only family of flowering plants restricted to an oceanic island). Evolutionary investigations on these endemic taxa plus evaluations of introduced species, have underscored the need for a modern inventory of diversity to stimulate additional research and to help conservation initiatives. The previous descriptive works of Hemsley, Johow, Skottsberg and others, plus new specimens from eight new expeditions during the past 18 years, have provided a strong foundation for writing a modern flora. The new Flora of the Robinson Crusoe Islands will be published in one volume, containing descriptions, illustrations, localities, conservation status, and keys for all species. More importantly, the introductory chapters will summarize biological and evolutionary information gathered during the past two decades. As such, this will be a Flora with an unusual level of data regarding phytogeographic origins, patterns of phylogeny, chromosomal variation, modes of speciation, genetic variation within endemic species, reproductive patterns, and morphological and phytochemical divergence.

Key words: Chile, flora, islands, Juan Fernandez, Robinson Crusoe