[Botany • 2025] Newmania bambusifolia (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae) • A New Species from Hon Ba Nature Reserve, southern Vietnam

 

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao, 

in Truong, Q.B. Nguyen, Q.C. Nguyen et Leong-Škorničková, 2025. 

Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 77(1);   

ABSTRACT    

 Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao (Zingiberaceae:

Zingiberoideae), a new ginger species discovered in Hon Ba Nature Reserve, Khanh Hoa

Province in southern Vietnam is described and illustrated here with notes on distribution,

ecology, phenology, preliminary IUCN assessment, and etymology. It is distinct from all

known congeners by the very narrow leaf-blades, resembling those of bamboos. This discovery

increases the total number of species in Newmania to seven. We include an updated key to the

genus accommodating this novelty.

Keywords. Eastern Indochina, gingers, Khanh Hoa Province, Vulnerable, Zingibereae

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao in situ at Hon Ba Nature Reserve.
From the type, Truong et al. BV 1774. (Photo: B.V. Truong)

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao. 
A. Habit (inset: detail of cross-section of rhizome). Scale bar: 30 cm. B. Leaf blades from various parts of the leafy shoot (from the left: distal, middle part of pseudostem (two blades), basal). C. Pseudostem showing ligules, pulvinate petioles and bases of leaf blades. D, E. Detail of leaf sheaths and ligules. F. Rhizome with an inflorescence.

All from the type, Truong et al. BV 1774. (Photos: B.V. Truong)

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao.   
A. Distal part of the flower in different views. B. Details of stamen and stigma (left: entire stamen in adaxial view; top right: anther with part of filament in abaxial and lateral views; bottom right: details of stigma). C. Flower with bract, pedicel and part of rachis, and dissection below (from left: bract, bracteole, calyx, dorsal corolla lobe in abaxial view, lateral corolla lobes (one in adaxial and one in abaxial view), staminodes (one in abaxial and one in adaxial view), and labellum. Tweezers seen across the labellum were used to flatten it.

 All from the type, Truong et al. BV 1774. (Photos: B.V. Truong)

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao, sp. nov. 

Unique in the genus by its prominently narrow, bamboo-like leaf-blades and dark purple labellum with overlapping lobes. Flowers are most similar to Newmania cristata by the yellow to greenish floral tube and filament, but differ by having a small anther crest less than 1 mm long with entire rounded apex (vs anther crest 4.6–5 mm long with a bilobed apex).

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to the unusually narrow, bamboo-like leaf blades.  

Truong, B.V., Nguyen, Q.B., Nguyen, Q.C. & Leong-Škorničková, J. 2025. Newmania bambusifolia (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae), A New Species from Hon Ba Nature Reserve, southern Vietnam. Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 77(1); 113 - 120.

[Botany • 2025] Curcuma corallina (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae) • A New Species from south-central Vietnam

Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk.

in Phan, Nguyễn, Cao, Lý et Leong-Škorničková, 2025. 

 Nghệ hồng san hô, Nghệ san hô  ||  Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2); 

ABSTRACT

 Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk., a new ginger species discovered in the south-central region of Vietnam, is described here with colour plates and notes on its distribution, habitat, phenology, etymology, and a preliminary IUCN conservation assessment. It is placed in Curcuma subg. Ecomatae Škorničk. & Šída f. and, for diagnostic purposes, is compared to C. rhomba Mood & K.Larsen, which is superficially similar in overall plant habit, a lack of bracteoles, and flower colour, but differs in rhizome structure, and the shape, size and colour of various floral parts. 

Keywords. Curcuma rhomba, Curcuma subgenus Ecomatae, deciduous forest, endemic species, monocots, Zingibereae

Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk.
A. Flowering plant in natural habit. B. Inflorescence (top view). C. Flowers (front view). D. Basal part of a flowering plant showing rhizome with root tubers, pseudostem with leaf sheaths and petioles, and inflorescences.

All from the type collection, Lý-1916. (Photos: A, B, N.G. Cao; C, D, N.S. Lý)

Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk.
A. Flowering plant. B. Rhizome with root tubers. C. Leaf (abaxial view). D. Ligules from a flowering plant (left) and a young plant (right). E. Inflorescence. F. Fertile bracts. G. Stamen in front, back and side views. H. A bract from the middle part of the thyrse supporting two flowers followed by the flower dissection: dorsal corolla lobe, lateral staminodes, lateral corolla lobes and labellum, calyx, floral tube with ovary and stamen attached, longitudinal dissection of floral tube, and ovary and epigynous glands.

All from the type collection, Lý-1916. 

(Photos: A, D, N.G. Cao; B, C, E–H, N.S. Lý)

 

Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk., sp. nov. 

Resembles C. rhomba Mood & K.Larsen in its overall plant habit, lack of bracteoles, flower colour, and anther shape, but differs in having a much-branched rhizome (vs rhizome unbranched, except a single branch leading to a new shoot); coral pink and larger corolla lobes (dorsal 23–36 × 8–13 mm, lateral 21–24 × 8–11 mm vs dorsal c. 19 × 5 mm, lateral c. 18 × 4 mm, all rich red); a larger, broadly obovate labellum (19–24 × 16–21 mm) with a bluntly bilobed apex and an incision not exceeding one-third the length of the labellum (vs labellum c. 17 × 9 mm, narrowly rhomboid with a sharply bilobed apex and incision extending beyond half the length of the labellum); larger, broadly ovate staminodes (18–26 × 14–20 mm) that are rich orange with a paler base (vs c. 17 × 11 mm, narrowly rhomboid, uniformly orange with dark red dots at the base); and a shorter, truncate to slightly emarginate anther crest c. 0.5 mm long, not exceeding the stigma (vs rounded crest c. 1 mm long, exceeding the stigma). 

– TYPE: Vietnam, Ninh Thuan Province [now Khan Hoa Province], Bac Ai District, Phuoc Binh Commune, Phuoc Binh National Park [now Nui Chua-Phuoc Binh NP], ...

 

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from Latin ‘corallinus’ and refers to the coral pink bracts and corolla lobes of the new species. 

Proposed vernacular name and uses. Nghệ hồng san hô, Nghệ san hô (Vietnamese; coral pink turmeric). No uses were so far reported by the local people.

Phan, N.M., Nguyễn, A.T., Cao, N.G., Lý, N.S. & Leong-Škorničková, J. 2025. Curcuma corallina (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae), A New Species from south-central Vietnam. Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2); 249 - 258. 

[Botany • 2025] Homalomena polyneura (Araceae) • A New spectacular Species from Indonesian New Guinea

 

Homalomena polyneura A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri, 

Irsyam, Husaini, Pratami, Raynalta, Setiawan et Hariri, 2025.

Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2); 219 - 223.

  Researchgate.net/publication/398711786

ABSTRACT. 

A new ornamental species of Homalomena Schott, H. polyneura A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri, is formally described from Central Papua, Indonesia. 

Keywords. Aroid, Malesia, Philodendreae, rheophytic

 Homalomena polyneura A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri.
A, B. Habit. C, D. Leaf showing both adaxial and abaxial surfaces. E. Spathe. F. Spadix. G. Close-up of staminate flowers. H. Close-up of pistillate flowers. I. Close-up of post-anthesis pistillate flowers.

(Photos: A-D, E. Raynalta; E-I, M.R. Hariri)

Homalomena polyneura A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov.

 Homalomena polyneura exhibits morphological affinities with H. steenisiana A.Hay, yet it can be readily distinguished by 5–6 primary lateral veins (vs 2–3), inflorescences solitary or 2 together (vs few to c. 16 together), spathe reddish to dark brown (vs green), female zone shorter than male zone (vs female and male zones approximately equal in length), and pistillate flowers lacking staminodes (vs staminodes present).

Etymology. The specific epithet polyneura is derived from the Greek poly- (many) and neuron (nerve, vein), in reference to the conspicuous abundance of raised lateral veins on the adaxial surface of the leaf lamina.

Irsyam, A.S.D., Husaini, I.P.A., Pratami, M.P., Raynalta, E. Setiawan A.A. & Hariri, M.R. 2025. A New spectacular Species of Homalomena (Araceae) from Indonesian New Guinea. Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2); 219 - 223. 

 Researchgate.net/publication/398711786_A_new_spectacular_species_of_Homalomena_from_Indonesian_New_Guinea

[Botany • 2024] Strobilanthes siangensis (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, East Himalayas

 

Strobilanthes siangensis J.R.I.Wood, Gammi & D.Borah, 

in Wood, Borah, Gammi, Taram et Thungon, 2024.

Gardens' Bulletin Singapore. 76(2); 

  facebook.com: Dipu Borah 

Arunachal Pradesh in northeastern India hosts a diverse array of Strobilanthes Blume species. The occurrence of two previously unreported species, Strobilanthes pubiflora J.R.I.Wood and S. paniculiformis J.R.I.Wood, is documented. Strobilanthes siangensis J.R.I.Wood, Gammi & D.Borah is described as new and discussed in detail. A key to similar species is provided for identification purposes. The paper is illustrated with a map and photographs.

Strobilanthes siangensis J.R.I.Wood, Gammi & D.Borah.
A. Habit. B. Corolla, front view. C. Corolla, side view. (Photos: L. Gammi)

Strobilanthes siangensis J.R.I.Wood, Gammi & D.Borah, sp. nov. 

This species belongs to the group placed by Bremekamp (1944) in his segregate genus Semnostachya Bremek., which is characterised by the spicate inflorescences in which the bracts, bracteoles and calyx lobes are all similarly linear-oblong, the bracts persistent, the stamens included and the corolla usually glabrous on the exterior. In India this group is poorly represented with only five recognised species all occurring in the northeast region (see key below). The new species is possibly most similar to Strobilanthes elongata Clarke in facies (Figs 1E, 1F) but can be immediately distinguished from this and other species in the group by its white corolla which is pubescent on the exterior. 

Wood, J.R.I., Borah, D., Gammi, L., Taram, M. and Thungon, L.T. 2024. New Records and A New Species of Strobilanthes (Acanthaceae) from Arunachal Pradesh, East Himalayas. Gardens' Bulletin Singapore. 76(2); 293 - 301. 

  facebook.com/DipuBorah2/posts/8862833183809142

[Botany • 2025] Clerodendrum kelli (Lamiaceae) • A New Species from Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, and Lectotypification of Clerodendrum mindorense

 

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples, 

in Ples, Patykowski, Udasco, Altomonte, Tobias et Bustamante, 2025. 

Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2) 

  facebook.com/phtaxa

ABSTRACT

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples—a new species of the genus Clerodendrum L. (Lamiaceae) from the montane forests of Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, Luzon Island, Philippines—is described and illustrated. The species shares morphological features that are uncommon for the genus with both Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Blanco) Merr. (purple abaxial leaf surfaces) and C. mindorense Merr. (reduced fruiting calyx lobes), but differs from both in having lax (vs dense/compact) inflorescences bearing flowers with shorter corolla tubes and reddish-pink (vs green or purple) calyces with ovate (vs triangular or lanceolate) lobes. Additionally, a lectotype for C. mindorense is assigned. Preliminary assessment of its conservation status following IUCN guidelines places Clerodendrum kelli in the category of Critically Endangered (CR B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii)).

 Keywords. Lamiales, Luzon Island, Pantabangan-Carranglan Watershed Forest Reserve, understorey shrub

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples.
A. Flowering twig. B. Leaf. C. Flower. D. Anther. E. Stigma. F. Developing fruit and fruiting calyx without lobes.

 Illustrated by Julieferd Torres.

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples. 
A. Habit. B. Leaves, adaxial and abaxial surface. C. Flowers and immature fruits. D. Inflorescence and flowers (front view). E. Longitudinal section of flower. F. Inflorescence and flowers (side view).

(Photos: A, E, A.B. Tobias; B, D, J.P. Collantes; C, J.A. Mansibang; F, J.M. Agcaoili)

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples, sp. nov.

 This species shares characters that are uncommon for the genus with both Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Blanco) Merr. (purple abaxial leaf surfaces) and Clerodendrum mindorense Merr. (reduced fruiting calyx lobes). However, it differs from both in having lax (vs dense/compact) inflorescences bearing flowers with shorter (1.2–1.5 vs 2–3 and 4.5–11 cm long) corollas and reddish-pink (vs green or purple) calyces with ovate (vs triangular or lanceolate) lobes.

Etymology and uses. The specific epithet kelli is the Bugkalot name for this species. The Bugkalot recognise Clerodendrum kelli as a species that occurs in the colder areas of the mountain; they traditionally mix extracts from the mashed leaves of this plant with food preparations for sick dogs to restore their health (Udasco, pers. comm.).

Ples, D.J.R., Patykowski, J., Udasco, L.C., Altomonte, J.C., Tobias, A.B. & Bustamante, R.A.A. 2025. Clerodendrum kelli (Lamiaceae), A New Species from Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, and lectotypification of Clerodendrum mindorense. Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2); 225 - 224.

  facebook.com/phtaxa/posts/1252859430233555

  facebook.com/ferdtorresssss/posts/25216021468078324

https://www.nparks.gov.sg/sbg/research/publications/gardens'-bulletin-singapore/-/media/sbg/gardens-bulletin/gbs_77_02_y2025/77_02_07_y2025_v77p2_gbs_pg225.pdf

 

[Botany • 2025] Strobilanthes sherdukpenorum (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from the East Himalayas

 

Strobilanthes sherdukpenorum D.Borah & J.R.I.Wood,

in Borah, Ahmed et Wood, 2025. 

 Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 77(1); 

 facebook.com/DipuBorah2

A new species, Strobilanthes sherdukpenorum D.Borah & J.R.I.Wood, is described from Arunachal Pradesh in the East Himalayas. The new species is illustrated with original photographs and its salient characteristics are indicated. It enjoys a degree of protection because of its presence in the Kameng Protected Area Complex.

Keywords. Arunachal Pradesh, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Kameng protected area complex,

taxonomy

Strobilanthes sherdukpenorum D.Borah & J.R.I.Wood.
A. Plant showing inflorescence and leaves. B. Flower spikes. C. Corolla showing indumentum and exserted stamens (inset: close-up of calyx). D. Flower spike showing opposite flowers. E. Androecium showing erect anthers and villous filaments. F. Style. G. Capsule. (Photos: D. Borah)

Strobilanthes sherdukpenorum D.Borah & J.R.I.Wood 

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to the Sherdukpen people who were the original inhabitants of the land but left it to nature and wildlife. It was here where the species was collected and thrives. The Sherdukpen people still visit some parts of the area for religious purposes but cause no destruction or make any attempt to reclaim any part of the site from nature. Their name for the species is “Sein-banlo”.

Borah, D., Ahmed, N & Wood, J.R.I. 2025. Strobilanthes sherdukpenorum (Acanthaceae), A New Species from the East Himalayas. Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 77(1); 141 - 148] 

  facebook.com/DipuBorah2/posts/23998970336435513

[Botany • 2025] Habenaria diwata (Orchidaceae: Orchidoideae) • A New Species from Mount Malinao, Albay Province, Luzon Island, Philippines

 

Habenaria diwata R.Bustam., J.Collantes & M.R.B.Altamirano,

in Altamirano, Collantes et Bustamante, 2025.

Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 77(1);

 facebook.com/phtaxa

ABSTRACT

 A new species, Habenaria diwata R.Bustam., J.Collantes & M.R.B.Altamirano

(Orchidaceae: Orchidoideae), is described from Mount Malinao, Luzon Island, Philippines.

Habenaria diwata most closely resembles the Taiwanese species H. tsaiana T.P.Lin in having

bipartite petals with an entire posterior lobe and a tripartite labellum with an entire mid-lobe

and subdivided side lobes, but differs by its shorter lateral sepals (9–11 mm long vs 12.5–13.5

mm long in H. tsaiana), anterior petal lobes that are mostly entire, with the lower margin

lacerate or unequally bifid at the apex (vs subdivided into two segments), shorter labellum

base (1 mm vs 1.5–2 mm) and labellum side lobes subdivided into two filiform segments (vs

subdivided into three filiform segments). Differences of H. diwata from a similar Philippine

species, H. lingulosa Ames, are briefly discussed. This discovery raises the current number

of recognised Habenaria species in the Philippines to 22. Illustrations and information on its

distribution, habitat, phenology, and proposed conservation status are provided.

Keywords. Bicol Region, endemic, Habenaria sect. Medusaeformes, mossy forest, terrestrial

orchid

Habenaria diwata R.Bustam., J.Collantes & M.R.B.Altamirano.
A. Flowering plant, upper part. B. Basal part showing stem and roots. C. Ventral view of perianth and column. D. Lateral view of flower. E. Dissected perianth with ventral view of sepals, petals and labellum. F. Floral Bract. G. Lateral view of column and ovary. H. Lateral view of spur. I. Ventral view of column. J. Pollinaria.

From the holotype, PTI-SLP1 27. (Photos: J.P.R. Collantes)

   

Habenaria diwata R.Bustam., J.Collantes & M.R.B.Altamirano, sp. nov. 

Habenaria diwata most closely resembles the Taiwan endemic H. tsaiana T.P.Lin in its bipartite petals with an entire posterior lobe and a tripartite labellum with an entire midlobe and subdivided side lobes. Habenaria diwata differs by its shorter lateral sepals (9–11 mm long vs 12.5–13.5 mm long in H. tsaiana), anterior petal lobes that are mostly entire, lacerate or unequally bifid at the apex (vs subdivided into two segments), shorter labellum base (1 mm vs 1.5–2 mm), and labellum side lobes subdivided into two filiform segments (vs subdivided into three filiform segments). Detailed morphological differences between the species are presented in Table 1.

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to Philippine mythology and folklore deities who guard the natural world (Landa, 1968). The pale, whitish green flowers are reminiscent of the ghostly white female representations of diwata in popular culture, while the dormancy in its life cycle in turn echoes the ephemeral nature of these spiritual beings. 

Altamirano, M.R.B., Collantes, J.P.R. & Bustamante, R.A.A. 2025. Habenaria diwata (Orchidaceae: Orchidoideae), A New Species from Mount Malinao, Albay Province, Luzon Island, Philippines. Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 77(1); 101 - 112.

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[Botany • 2024] Bulbophyllum bonjolianum (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Bulbophyllinae) • A New Species of section Macrocaulia from Sumatra, Indonesia

 Bulbophyllum bonjolianum Yudistira, Candra & Mustaqim, 

in Yudistira, Candra et Mustaqim, 2024. 

 facebook.com: Wendy Achmmad Mustaqim

 Researchgate.net/publication/387275550

Bulbophyllum bonjolianum Yudistira, Candra & Mustaqim, a member of section Macrocaulia, is described here based on a specimen collected from the mountains of West Sumatra. It is similar to B. tristriatum Carr. and B. pyridion J.J.Verm. but differs in the morphology of the dorsal sepal, petal and labellum. A key to B. bonjolianum and morphologically similar species is presented.

Keywords. Endemic, epiphyte, Malesia, orchids, taxonomy

 Bulbophyllum bonjolianum Yudistira, Candra & Mustaqim.
 A. Plant habit with inflorescence. B. Flower top view. C. Median sepal, abaxial view. D. Median sepal, adaxial view. E. Lateral sepal, abaxial view. F. Lateral sepal, adaxial view. G. Petal, abaxial view. H. Petal, adaxial view. I. Labellum, lateral view. J, K. Labellum, abaxial and adaxial surface. L. Column stelidium. M. Anther cap, adaxial view. N. Anther cap, abaxial view. O. Pollinarium.

Drawing by Yuanito Eliazar.

 Bulbophyllum bonjolianum Yudistira, Candra & Mustaqim.
A. Plant habit. B. Inflorescence. C, D. Flower, lateral view, with close-up view showing basal node of the pedicel. E. Flower, front view without median sepal. F. Flower, view from above. G. Median sepal, abaxial and adaxial views. H. Petal, abaxial and adaxial views. I. Lateral sepal, abaxial, adaxial and side views. J. Labellum, adaxial, abaxial and side views. K. Column with stelidia, side view. L. Column stelidia, front view.

 ab = abaxial, ad = adaxial, sv = side view. (Photos: Y.R. Yudistira)

Bulbophyllum bonjolianum Yudistira, Candra & Mustaqim, sp. nov.

Bulbophyllum bonjolianum is morphologically similar to B. tristriatum Carr. and B. pyridion J.J.Verm., but differs in the dorsal sepals abruptly tapering from the middle upwards (vs gradually narrowing), pentagonal petal (vs elliptic-(ob)-ovate in B. tristriatum and elliptic in B. pyridion), and longer labellum (6.8–7 mm vs 3.5–5 mm in B. tristriatum and c. 3.2 mm long in B. pyridion) with the proximal adaxial surface coarsely papillose (vs smooth). The species is also similar to the Peninsular Malaysian species B. hodgsonii M.R.Hend., but the new species differs in its dorsal sepals abruptly tapering from the middle upwards (vs gradually narrowing), lateral sepals with 3 veins (vs 5), and the coarsely papillose adaxial surface of the labellum in the lower proximal part (vs smooth).

Etymology. The species is named in honour of Tuanku Imam Bonjol, a national hero of Indonesia from West Sumatra Province.   

Yudistira, Y.R., Candra, R. and Mustaqim, W.A. 2024. A New Species of Bulbophyllum (Orchidaceae: Bulbophyllinae) section Macrocaulia from Sumatra, Indonesia. Gardens' Bulletin Singapore. 76(1); 251 - 258.

  facebook.com/botanywam/posts/1002208751727954

 Researchgate.net/publication/387275550_A_new_species_of_Bulbophyllum_section_Macrocaulia_from_Sumatra_Indonesia

 

[Botany • 2021] Petrocosmea villosa (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Shan State, Myanmar

Petrocosmea villosa D.J.Middleton, 

in Middleton, Shin et Baba, 2021. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.26492/gbs73(2).2021-14 

Researchgate.net/publication/357020889

ABSTRACT 

The new species Petrocosmea villosa D.J.Middleton from Shan State, Myanmar is described. It is most similar to Petrocosmea kerrii Craib, P. crinita (W.T.Wang) Z.J.Qiu and P. heterophylla B.L.Burtt in Petrocosmea sect. Deinanthera but differs particularly in inflorescence structure, inflorescence indumentum and in the long calyx lobes. 

Keywords. Petrocosmea crinita, Petrocosmea heterophylla, Petrocosmea kerrii, Petrocosmea sect. Deinanthera, Shan State

Petrocosmea villosa D.J.Middleton.
 A. Flower front view. B. Flower side view.

(Photo: S. Ruchisansakun)

Petrocosmea villosa D.J.Middleton, sp. nov. 

Similar to Petrocosmea kerrii and P. crinita (W.T.Wang) Z.J.Qiu in the shape and colour of the corolla but differs from both in having both sessile and petiolate leaves (petiolate only in P. kerrii and P. crinita), longer calyx lobes (11–12 mm long in P. villosa, 1.5–4 mm long in P. kerrii and P. crinita) and more flowers ...

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to the dense hair covering on the inflorescence.

David John Middleton, Thant Shin and Y. Baba. 2021. A New Species of Petrocosmea (Gesneriaceae) from Myanmar. Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 73(2); 457-460. DOI: doi.org/10.26492/gbs73(2).2021-14 

Researchgate.net/publication/357020889_A_new_species_of_Petrocosmea_from_Myanmar

[Botany • 2024] Primulina serina (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from northern Guangxi, China

 

Primulina serina F.Wen & W.C.Chou, 

金翅报春苣苔

in Mai, Chou et Wen, 2024. 

Gardens' Bulletin Singapore. 76(2); 

A new species of Primulina Hance (Gesneriaceae), P. serina F.Wen & W.C.Chou from northern Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to P. versicolor F.Wen, B.Pan & B.M.Wang, but can be easily distinguished by its smaller bracts. In its natural habitat, this species exists only in two subpopulations, and they occupy an area of less than 40 m2 and, following IUCN guidelines, this new species is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).

Keywords. Lamiales, morphology, Primulina versicolor, taxonomy 

Primulina serina F.Wen & W.C.Chou.
A. Habitat. B. Habit. C. Abaxial (right) and adaxial (left) surface of leaves. D. Flowering cyme. E. Indumentum on peduncle. F. Adaxial view of bracts. G. Pedicels. H. Corolla front (middle) and side views (left and right). I. Purple erect glandular hairs on corolla. J. Calyx lobes, dissected showing the abaxial surfaces. K. Opened corolla, showing stamens (anthers and filaments) and staminodes. L. Pistil (left), style and stigma (middle), and ovary plus calyx (right).

 (Photos: W.C. Chou, F. Wen & D.C. Meng)

Primulina serina F.Wen & W.C.Chou, sp. nov. 

The new species is most similar in leaf characteristics to Primulina versicolor F.Wen, B.Pan & B.M.Wang but differs by its lanceolate to narrowly ovate (vs broadly ovate or sub-rounded) bracts 3–3.5 × 1–1.2 mm (vs 50–55 × 44–50 mm).

Etymology. Primulina serina is named after the canary (Serinus canaria) owing to its exquisite yellow flowers. The specific epithet “serina” is derived from the Latin word “citrinus”, meaning “lemon yellow”, reflecting the canary’s bright yellow plumage. 

Vernacular name. 金翅报春苣苔 (Jīn Chì Bào Chūn Jù Tái).

G.D. Mai, G.D., Chou, W.C. and Wen, F. 2024. Primulina serina, A New Species of Gesneriaceae from northern Guangxi, China. Gardens' Bulletin Singapore. 76(2); 285 - 291. 

[Botany • 2024] Pandanus ramromensis (Pandanaceae) • A New Species from Peninsular Thailand

 

Pandanus ramromensis Callm., Y.W.Low & Buerki, 

in Callmander,Low, Poopath et Buerki, 2024. 

เตยเขารามโรม  ||  Gardens' Bulletin Singapore. 76(2);  

Photos: M.W. Callmander & Y.W. Low

Drawn by W. Bhuchaisri.

 x.com/YeeWenLow

Pandanus ramromensis Callm., Y.W.Low & Buerki (Pandanaceae) from the summit of Khao Ram Rome (Nakhon Si Thammarat Province) in Peninsular Thailand is described here. The new species resembles Pandanus kedahensis H.St.John in its ecology and habit but differs by the dimensions of its leaves, leaf shape, syncarps and styles. The new species is provided with line drawings and field photographs, and is assigned a preliminary conservation status of Vulnerable (VU) using the IUCN Red List criteria.

Keywords. Endemic, Khao Ram Rome, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pandanales

Pandanus ramromensis Callm., Y.W.Low & Buerki.
A. Habit. B, C. Syncarp. D. Closeup on styles and stigmas. E. Single drupe detached. F. Basal part of a leaf. G. Median part of a leaf. H. Upper part of a leaf.

From the type Callmander et al. 1373. Drawn by W. Bhuchaisri.

Pandanus ramromensis Callm., Y.W.Low & Buerki.
A. Habit. B, C. Syncarp. D. Closeup on styles and stigmas.

From the type Callmander et al. 1373.

Photos: M.W. Callmander & Y.W. Low

Pandanus ramromensis Callm., Y.W.Low & Buerki 

Callmander, M.W., Low, Y.W., Poopath, M. and Buerki, S. 2024. Pandanus ramromensis (Pandanaceae), A New Species from Peninsular Thailand. Gardens' Bulletin Singapore. 76(2); 269 - 275.

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[Botany • 2023] Kopsia obscura (Apocynaceae) • A New Species of unknown provenance

Kopsia obscura D.J.Middleton, 

in Middleton, 2023. 

Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 75(2);  

ABSTRACT

 The new species Kopsia obscura D.J.Middleton in the Apocynaceae is described.

Keywords. Cultivated, Kopsia fruticosa, Kopsia griffithii, Rauvolfioid

 

Kopsia obscura D.J.Middleton.
 A. Habit. B. Flower. (Photos: D.J. Middleton)

Kopsia obscura D.J.Middleton, sp. nov.

Similar to Kopsia fruticosa (Roxb.) A.DC. in the pink corolla but differs in the smaller stature (shrub to 50 cm tall in K. obscura, shrub or tree to 6 m tall in K. fruticosa), glabrous branchlets (pubescent in K. fruticosa) and mostly narrower corolla lobes (5– 5.7 mm wide in K. obscura, 5.5–16 mm wide in K. fruticosa). Also similar to Kopsia griffithii King & Gamble in general appearance, especially in the leaves, but differs in inflorescence structure (shorter and more congested in K. obscura), corolla colour (pink in K. obscura, white with yellow ‘eye’ in K. griffithii) and nectary indumentum (glabrous in K. obscura, pubescent in K. griffithii).  

Etymology. The specific epithet obscura reflects the lack of information available on the origins of this species.

D.J. Middleton. 2023. A New Species of Kopsia (Apocynaceae) of unknown provenance. Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 75(2);  315 - 317. 

[Botany • 2023] Claderia leontocampus • A New Species of Claderia (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Claderiinae)

 

Claderia leontocampus Niissalo,
 

in Niissalo, Leong, Tay, Choo, Kurzweil et Khew, 2023.

Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 75(1) 

 nparks.gov.sg/sbg/research/publications/Gardens'-Bulletin-Singapore

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A little-studied orchid genus, Claderia Hook.f., has until now contained just one or two species, Claderia viridiflora Hook.f. and its possible synonym, C. papuana Schltr. We describe a new species from Singapore, which differs from these Claderia in having small, cream-yellow flowers that are nodding and presented in a long, unbranched terminal inflorescence, mostly with two flowers open simultaneously. We name the new species Claderia leontocampus Niissalo. Plants of the new species have been collected or recorded in Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia and possibly Peninsular Thailand. We carried out population genetics analyses to show distinction between the new species and Claderia viridiflora. The two species occur in the same habitat in Singapore. We used phylogenetic analyses to find out the phylogenetic position of Claderia within Orchidaceae; the genus is here considered to belong to subfamily Epidendroideae Kostel., tribe Epidendreae Lindl., subtribe Claderiinae Szlach. We publish the plastome and ITS sequences of Claderia viridiflora. Two names are lectotypified.

Keywords. Epidendroideae, ITS, plastome, population genetics, Singapore

    

  

Claderia leontocampus Niissalo, sp. nov.

 Similar to Claderia viridiflora Hook. f. but differs from it in having narrower flowers (2.5 cm vs 5 cm in C. viridiflora), which are pendulous and cream-yellow (upright and bright green in C. viridiflora) with narrower lip midlobe (7 mm wide vs 12 mm wide or more in C. viridiflora). The inflorescences mostly have two flowers open simultaneously, along with many developing buds, instead of one flower developing and open at a time in Claderia viridiflora. 

Distribution and ecology. Singapore, Malaysia (Perlis), Indonesia (Sumatra), and possibly Thailand (Nakhon Si Thammarat). In Singapore, it occurs in old secondary lowland forest on well-drained soil, in the area between Upper Seletar Reservoir and Upper Peirce Reservoir.

Etymology. The epithet is our Greek translation of Merlion, a symbol of Singapore, which is the type locality of the species.

  

 

M.A. Niissalo, P.K.F. Leong, F.E.L. Tay, L.M. Choo, H. Kurzweil & G.S. Khew. 2023. A New Species of Claderia (Orchidaceae). Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 75(1); 21–41.  

 nparks.gov.sg/sbg/research/publications/Gardens'-Bulletin-Singapore/listing-of-publications?year=2023

https://www.nparks.gov.sg/sbg/research/publications/gardens'-bulletin-singapore/-/media/sbg/gardens-bulletin/gbs_75_01_y2023/75_01_02_y2023_v7501_gbs_pg21.ashx

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