Wednesday, December 13, 2023

[Botany • 2022] Chlorophytum delicatulum (Asparagaceae) • A newly described Species from Zambia


Chlorophytum delicatulum  Osborne, Vollesen & Bjorå, 

in Osborne, Vollesen, Bjorå, Grall, Merrett et Kativu, 2022. 

Summary
Chlorophytum delicatulum Osborne, Vollesen & Bjorå from Zambia is described, illustrated and placed within the context of recent taxonomic and phylogenetic work on Chlorophytum in Africa. This delicate herb has leaf bases furnished with conspicuous dark red setae resembling eyelashes. Its phylogenetic position, ecology, phytogeography and conservation status are discussed. Chlorophytum delicatulum is assessed as being of Least Concern using the categories and criteria of the IUCN Red List.

Key Words: Africa, conservation status, ecology, new species, phylogeny, taxonomy

Chlorophytum delicatulum at Mutinondo Wilderness Area.
A inflorescence; B flower showing underside of tepals; C seed capsule; D leaf bases showing dark red marginal setae.
photos: L. Merrett.

Chlorophytum delicatulum Osborne, Vollesen & Bjorå sp. nov. 
 
ETYMOLOGY. The specific epithet refers to the slender and delicate form of the plant.


J. Osborne, K. Vollesen, C. S. Bjorå, A. Grall, L. Merrett and S. Kativu. 2022. Chlorophytum delicatulum (Asparagaceae), A newly described Species from Zambia. Kew Bulletin. DOI: 10.1007/s12225-022-10032-5