Phytogeographic aspects of Crotalaria L. (Leguminosae) in southern Brazil are discussed. The genus presents pantropical distribution, with nine native species and seven introduced ones in southern Brazil. The species of Crotalaria occur on the Paranaense, Atlântica and Pampeana biogeographic provinces. The geographic distribution of the species along the three states in southern Brazil shows a decreasing latitudinal gradient of floristic diversity from Paraná to Rio Grande do Sul. The region of Paraná State, between the 49º-50º W and 24º 26º S, presents the greatest diversity of species.
phytogeography; Crotalaria; southern Brazil
