[Botany • 2026] Pseuderanthemum multiflorum (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Thailand

 

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum Choopan & Grote,

in Choopan et Grote, 2026.

เข็มฉัตร  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.2.12

Abstract

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum (Acanthaceae), a new species known only from Thailand, is here described and illustrated. It is distinguished from P. graciliflorum by inner corolla tube and pistil being glabrous instead of puberulous and by calyx lobes 4.5–6 mm long instead of 3–4 mm long. Comparison of morphological characteristics are provided.

Keywords: conservation status, flora, morphology, taxonomy 

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum Choopan & Grote:
A. habit; B. flower; C. pistil and stamens; D. fruits; E. seeds.

(Drawn by Sunitsorn Pimpasalee).

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum Choopan & Grote:
A.-C. flowers; D. puberulous calyx and glabrous pistil; E. dried fruit and seeds; F. seeds; G. lower surface of leaf; H. & J. inflorescences; I. infructescence.

 (Photographed by Thiamhathai Choopan).

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum Choopan & Grote, sp. nov.  

Pseuderanthemum multiflorum is distinguished from P. graciliflorum by the inner corolla tube and pistil being glabrous instead of puberulous, by calyx lobes 4.5–6 mm long instead of 3–4 mm, and by capsule 3–3.5 cm long instead of 2–2.5 cm.

Thiamhathai Choopan and Paul Grote. 2026. Pseuderanthemum multiflorum (Acanthaceae), A New Species from Thailand. Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany). 54(2); 122-127. DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.2.12 [17 August 2026]
เข็มฉัตร พืชชนิดใหม่ของโลก จากเขาสอยดาว จ.จันทบุรี

[Botany • 2026] Lepidagathis argentea (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Thailand, and Updated Synopsis Lepidagathis of Thailand

Lepidagathis argentea Kantachot & Chantar., 

 

in Kantachot et Chantaranothai, 2026.

สังกรณีเงิน  |  DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.2.07 

Abstract

In this synopsis of the genus Lepidagathis for the Flora of Thailand, nine species are recognized. This includes Lepidagathis argentea, a new species collected from limestone bedrock in Tak Province, and three species newly recorded for Thailand, L. dulcis, L. purpuricaulis and L. thorelii. Lepidagathis chiengmaiensis and L. thyrsiflora, are reduced to synonyms of L. incurva and L. fasciculata, respectively. The following names have been lectotypified: Lepidagathis chiengmaiensis, L. chlorostachya, L. dissimilis, L. dulcis, L. falcata and L. thorelii. A genus description with key to species, nomenclatural notes, distributional data and specimens examined are provided.

Keywords: Lamiales, lectotype, new record, new species, taxonomy

Drawing of Lepidagathis argentea Kantachot & Chantar.
 A. habit, B. inflorescence with flowers, C. external surface of calyx, D. bracteoles, E. sterile bracts, F. gynoecium, G. fertile bracts, H. flower, J. capsule and seeds, K. seed and embryo.

Drawn from Kladwong & Kantachot 2025-1 (KKU) by K. Tuanku.

Lepidagathis argentea Kantachot & Chantar.
A. habitat, B. habit, C.-D. inflorescences with flowers.

Photos by P. Kladwong, W. Kiewbang and S. Suddee.

Lepidagathis argentea Kantachot & Chantar., sp. nov.

Chortip Kantachot and Pranom Chantaranothai. 2026. Lepidagathis (Acanthaceae) of Thailand: New Species and Updated Synopsis. Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany), 54(2), 64–75. DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.2.07  [2026-07-02] 

[Botany • 2026] Strobilanthes grandidentata (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India

 

Strobilanthes grandidentata S.Chowdhury, B.Hajong & P.Bharali,   

 in Chowdhury, Hajong, Wood et Bharali, 2026.   

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2192

Abstract

Strobilanthes grandidentata, a new species from the Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, is described and illustrated. A detailed discussion of its morphological similarities and dissimilarities with closely allied taxa is provided. It is accompanied by photographs, as well as notes on distribution, habitat and conservation status. The new species is assigned as ‘Data Deficient’ (DD) following the IUCN (2024) guidelines.

Keyword: Dibang Valley, Eastern Himalaya, Goldfussia, Mishmi Hills, Strobilanthes pentastemenoides, Strobilanthes sumatrana

Strobilanthes grandidentata sp. nov.
A. Habit, B. Leaf, C. Inflorescence, D. Flower bud, E. Bract, F. Bracteoles, G. Calyx, H. Split-open corolla, I. Androecium, J. Gynoecium, K. Stigma, L. Ovary. Photos by Sambit Chowdhury

Strobilanthes grandidentata S.Chowdhury, B.Hajong & P.Bharali, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: A very distinctive new species that has the diagnostic “Goldfussia” androecium in which the anthers are suborbicular to ellipsoid with the shorter (inner) pair incurved. The form of its inflorescence suggests an affinity with species with a similar capitellate inflorescence such as Strobilanthes pentastemenoides (Nees) T.Anderson but the persistent, green herbaceous bracts and presence of bracteoles (vs. bracts caducous, near colourless, scarious and bracteoles absent) are very different. Morphologically it is perhaps closest to the Sumatran species, S. sumatrana Miq., in its corolla size and indumentum, calyx size and indumentum and the shape of its bracts but is readily distinguished by the presence of bracteoles (vs. absent) and persistent bracts (vs. caducous). The new species is also distinctive in its apparently unique shiny leaves with brochidodromous venation, oblique base, large marginal teeth and winged petiole.

Sambit Chowdhury, Bipankar Hajong, John Richard Ironside Wood and Pankaj Bharali. 2026. Strobilanthes grandidentata (Acanthaceae), A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India.  Taiwania. 71(3); 483-487 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.483  [2026 May 25]

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2192

[Botany • 2023] Strobilanthes spathulatibracteata (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from northern Vietnam

 

Strobilanthes spathulatibracteata D.V. Hai, Z.L. Lin & Y.F. Deng, 

in Hai, Thuy, Lin et Deng, 2023.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.597.2.8 

Abstract

Strobilanthes spathulatibracteata is described as a new species from northern Vietnam. Morphologically, it resembles S. tonkinensis, but differs in its perennial undershrub habit, hirsute young stem, fragrant stem and blades, spathulate bracts and bracteoles with gland-tipped hirsute indumentum, 2-lipped calyx, 35–45 mm long corolla being puberulent outside and hirsute inside, and apically pubescent fruits. Photographs, illustrations, information on its habitat, ecology, pollen morphology and a preliminary conservation assessment are provided.

Flora of Asia, new combinations, new status, reinstatement, synonymy 

Strobilanthes spathulatibracteata D.V. Hai, Z.L. Lin & Y.F. Deng

DO VAN HAI, NGUYEN THU THUY, ZHELI LIN and YUNFEI DENG. 2023. Strobilanthes spathulatibracteata, A New Species of Acanthaceae from northern Vietnam. Phytotaxa. 597(2); 184-192. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.597.2.8 [12 May 2023]

https://vast.gov.vn/web/vietnam-academy-of-science-and-technology/tin-chi-tiet/-/chi-tiet/discovering-and-recording-a-number-of-new-species-for-science-in-kim-hy-nature-reserve-bac-kan-province-119914-871.html

[Botany • 2026] Saraca laotica (Malvaceae) • A New Species from Laos

  

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad.,

in Tagane, Phengmala, Kongxaisavath, Sengthong, Yamamoto, Phonepaseuth, Pham, Dang et Souladeth, 2026. 

ຄໍາລາວ  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.749.1.1 

 

Abstract

A new species of Saraca (Fabaceae-Detarioideae), S. laotica, is described and illustrated from Laos. It is characterized by leaflets with (9–)11–20 pairs of secondary veins, relatively larger, persistent and showy bracts of 1.4–3.3 × 0.6–0.9 cm, calyx tube of 27–36 mm, 4 stamens, anthers 1.9 mm long, by which combination, it is clearly distinguished from previously known species in the genus. Information on its habitat, phenology, vernacular name, and preliminary conservation assessment are also provided.

Detarioideae, endemic, Fabales, Leguminosae, limestones, plant taxonomy, Eudicots

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad.
A. Flowering branch; B & C. Portion of abaxial leaf surface; D. Hollowed twig inhabited by ants. E. Nest entrance on twig; F. Base of leaf showing petiole and petiolules; G. Young inflorescence; H & I. Bracts; J. portion of inflorescence, showing bracts and flower buds; K. Full-blooming inflorescence; L. Flowers, lateral view; M. Mouth of calyx tube showing ovary and filaments base; N. Bracteole (adaxial side); O. Anthers, adaxial (left) and abaxial (right) sides; P. Stigma; Q. Infructescence; R. Seeds.

Scale bars C, O & P = 1 mm, H = 5 mm, N = 2 mm, R = 1 cm. 

Photographed A & H from Tagane et al. Z1615, B, C, F, G, I–Q from Tagane et al. Z3281, D & E from Tagane et al. Z2639, R from Tagane et al. Z3281 (above three) and Z2639 (bottom), taken by S. Tagane.

  

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad., sp. nov.  

 

Diagnosis:—Similar to Saraca griffithiana and S. declinata in having persistent bracts and 4 stamens, but distinguished from the former by its midrib sunken adaxially (vs. prominent in S. griffithiana), longer bracts (1.4–3.3 cm long vs. shorter than 0.5 cm), and longer calyx tube (27–36 mm vs. 12–18 mm), and from the latter by more leaflets [5–9 pairs vs. 3–5(–7) pairs in S. declinata], more secondary veins [(9–)11–20 pairs vs. (6–)8–10(–12) pairs], larger bracts (1.4–3.3 × 0.6–0.9 cm vs. 0.3–1.2 × 0.1–0.7 cm), and longer anthers (1.9–2.2 mm vs. 0.75 mm long).

Etymology:—The specific epithet “laotica” refers to the country Laos, where the new species was discovered. 

Vernacular name:—ຄໍາລາວ (Kham Lao) (proposed here). In Lao, “Kham” means golden, referring to the color of the flowers, and “Lao” is the country name, indicating the locality where this species is found.

Shuichiro TAGANE, Kajonesuk PHENGMALA, Deuanta KONGXAISAVATH, Anousone SENGTHONG, Takenori YAMAMOTO, Phongphayboun PHONEPASEUTH, Quoc Trong PHAM, Van-Son DANG and Phetlasy SOULADETH. 2026. Saraca laotica (Fabaceae), A New Species from Laos. Phytotaxa. 749(1); 1-9. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.749.1.1 [2026-03-25]

 facebook.com/groups/168567307206461/permalink/2011536822909491/

[Botany • 2026] Justicia balakrishnaniana (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Justicia balakrishnaniana Parthiban, Rasingam & D. Sandhya Deepika,

in  Parthiban, Rasingam et Deepika, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0102  

  bsky.app/profile/AnBF.bsky.social 

Abstract

Justicia balakrishnaniana Parthiban, Rasingam & D. Sandhya Deepika (Acanthaceae) is described and illustrated as a new species from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It is morphologically allied to J. ekakusuma due to similarities in the inflorescence and bracteoles, but differs in its decumbent growth habit, stems that root at the lower nodes, 5-lobed calyx, fruits lacking a constriction at the middle and wingless seeds. An identification key to the species of Justicia in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is provided.

Justicia balakrishnaniana.
— A: Habit. — B: Flower. — C: Fruiting twig. — D: Flower bud. — E: Dorsal and ventral view of bract. — F: Dorsal and ventral view of bracteoles. — G: Corolla open. — H: Calyx. — I: Unequal calyx lobes. — J: Stamens. — K: Ovary with style. — L: Capsule. — M: Seeds.

D–M from the holotype; A–C photographed at Munda Pahad region of Chidiyatapu, 1 July 2025.

Justicia balakrishnaniana Parthiban, Rasingam & D. Sandhya Deepika, sp. nova 

Annual, erect or decumbent herbs, up to 30 cm tall; stems angular, 6-ridged, pubescent with strigose or hispid downwards-facing hairs on ridges, rooting at lower nodes; internodes 2–5 cm long, green. Leaves distinctly petiolate, petiole 1–2 mm long, sparsely hairy; lamina ovate to sub-orbicular, rarely elliptic, 0.6–1.5 × 0.4–1 cm, base cuneate to shortly attenuate, margins thickened with scabrous hairs, apex obtuse to rounded, sparsely strigose hairy on both sides; midrib prominent, on both sides with scabrous hairs; secondary veins 3–4 pairs, faint on adaxial surface, prominent on abaxial surface; cystoliths horizontally distributed along margins on adaxial surface. Inflorescence terminal spike, up to 3 cm long or solitary in ...

Etymology. The species is named in honour of Dr. N.P. Balakrishnan, former Regional Botanist of the Botanical Survey of India, who was instrumental in establishing the Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre of the Botanical Survey of India at Port Blair.

Arikrishnan Parthiban, Ladan Rasingam, and Devara Sandhya Deepika. 2026. Justicia balakrishnaniana (Acanthaceae), a New Species from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Annales Botanici Fennici. 63(1); 5-8. DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0102 (30 January 2026) 

 bsky.app/profile/AnBF.bsky.social/post/3mhpq47u3qk2p

[Botany • 2026] Firmiana laotica (Malvaceae) • A New Species from Limestone Karst, Khammouane Province, central Laos and Five New Records for the Flora of Laos

 

Firmiana laotica Sengthong, Soulad. & Tagane,

in Sengthong, Tagane, Souladeth, Dang, Yamamoto, Souvannakhoummane, Kongxaisavath, Phengmala, Tanaka et Pham, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.18942/apg.202523 

facebook.com/PhetlasySouladeth

 

Abstract

A new species, Firmiana laotica (Malvaceae), and five new records, Justicia oreophila (Acanthaceae), Aganosma wallichii (Apocynaceae), Colebrookea oppositifolia (Lamiaceae), Myristica yunnanensis (Myristicaceae), and Brachytome hainanensis (Rubiaceae) are reported for the flora of Laos. Voucher specimens, photographs, and ecological information in Laos are provided for each species.

Keywords: Central Laos, Firmiana laotica, flowering plants, Nam Kading NPA, Phou Hin Poun NP

Firmiana laotica Sengthong, Soulad. & Tagane.
A, habitat. B & C, habit. D, leafy twig. E, lower leaf surface. F, inflorescence. G, staminate flower. H & I, pistillate flowers. J, young fruits. All photos by Shuichiro Tagane.

Firmiana laotica Sengthong, Soulad. & Tagane, sp. nov. 

ປໍຜາລາວ

  Firmiana laotica is similar to F. fulgens (Wall. ex Mast.) K.Schum., but distinguished by leaf lobe apex (long-acuminate to caudate in F. laotica vs. acute to obtuse F. fulgens), lower leaf surface color (glaucous vs. not glaucous), depth of calyx lobes (lobed (1/3−)1/2 of calyx length vs. lobed 1/3–1/4 of calyx length), and number of stamens (15 in 5 groups of 3 vs. 20 or 25 in 5 groups of 4 or 5).

 

 Anousone Sengthong, Shuichiro Tagane, Phetlasy Souladeth, Van-Son Dang, Takenori Yamamoto, Keooudone Souvannakhoummane, Deuanta Kongxaisavath, Kajonesuk Phengmala, Nobuyuki Tanaka and Quoc Trong Pham. 2026. A New Species and Five New Records for the Flora of Laos. Acta Phytotaxonomica et Geobotanica. 77(1); 23-34. DOI: doi.org/10.18942/apg.202523 

 

ຂໍແນະນຳພືດຊະນິດໃໝ່ຂອງໂລກ ຈາກນິເວດພູຫິນປູນ (ບ້ານກອງລໍ ເຂດປ່າປ້ອງກັນພູໄຮ ແລະ The Rock at Phuphamarn ເມືອງຄູນຄຳ ແຂວງຄຳມ່ວນ)

ມີຊື່ວິທະຍາສາດ Firmiana laotica Sengthong, Soulad. & Tagane

ແລະ ໄດ້ໃຫ້ຊື່ລາວວ່າ ປໍຜາລາວ

  facebook.com/PhetlasySouladeth/posts/26072250059069501

[Botany • 2026] Dicliptera pakhalica (Acanthaceae: Justiciinae) • A New Species from Telangana, India

 

Dicliptera pakhalica  Rasingam, P. Harikrishna, Parthiban & V. Chandra Sekhara Rao,

in Rasingam, Harikrishna, Parthiban et Rao, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12228-025-09869-4 

Abstract

Dicliptera pakhalica (Acanthaceae) is described here as a new species from Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahabubabad District, Telangana, India. The species is closely related to D. parvibracteata, sharing a similar inflorescence structure and small bracts. However, it differs in several key morphological characters, including the presence of hairs on the stem, unkeeled secondary and tertiary bracts, the absence of glandular hairs on the calyx, corolla, and capsules, and echinate seeds. A detailed morphological description, notes on distribution and habitat, and photographic illustrations are provided to support the identification of this new species and stimulate further study.

 

Keywords: Deciduous forests, Justiciinae, Mahabubabad, Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary

A–D. Dicliptera pakhalica. A. Habit. B. Flowering twig. C. Flower. D. Fruits.
E–G. Dicliptera parvibracteata. E. Flowering twig. F. Flower. G. Fruit with glandular hairs.

 (Photos by L. Rasingam).

Dicliptera pakhalica Rasingam, P. Harikrishna, Parthiban & V. Chandra Sekhara Rao, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Dicliptera pakhalica is morphologically similar to D. parvibracteata in its inflorescence architecture and the presence of small-sized bracts. However, it differs in several key diagnostic characters, including secondary and tertiary bracts that are eglandular and not keeled (vs. prominently keeled and bearing glandular hairs in D. parvibracteata); calyx, corolla, and capsules uniformly eglandular (vs. sparsely to densely covered with a mixture of glandular and simple hairs); capsule obovoid (vs. ellipsoid); and seeds echinate (vs. tuberculate) (Table 1).

...

Etymology. The specific epithet pakhalica refers to the type locality the Pakhal Lake, a famous man-made water body dating to the Kakatiya rule in Telangana state, which was later declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary.

L. Rasingam, P. Harikrishna, A. Parthiban and V. Chandra Sekhara Rao. 2026. Dicliptera pakhalica (Acanthaceae) – A New Species from Telangana, India. Brittonia. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12228-025-09869-4 [29 January 2026] 

[Botany • 2025] Petalidium engoense (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Angola and Namibia, with notes on phenotypic plasticity in the genus

 

Petalidium engoense

in Swanepoel, Becker Van Wyk, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.734.1.2

Abstract 

Petalidium engoense, first collected in May 2025, is here described as a new species. It is a range-restricted species, only known from the western edge of the escarpment zone (Great Escarpment of southern Africa), in the hilly area bordering the Engo Valley (northwestern Namibia), and to the north of Espinheira (southwestern Angola), in the Kaokoveld Centre of Endemism. It grows amongst boulders on arid hillsides, and along an ephemeral riverbed. Diagnostic characters for P. engoense include the pale greyish green appearance of the plants, ashy-grey to white fissured bark on older stems, vegetative parts with a dense white indumentum of very small stellate (stellulate) and dendritic trichomes appearing tomentose, semi-succulent leaves, burgundy flowers borne in short few-flowered dichasia with inflorescence axis becoming spiny with age, and narrowly ovate, attenuate to acute, prominently reticulate bracteoles. The flowers of P. engoense are distinctive in having all lobes coloured burgundy, and the anterior lobe with two yellow ensiform nectar guides. A comparison of key morphological features distinguishing P. engoense from P. namibense, its closest relative in appearance, is provided. Based on IUCN Red List criteria, a provisional conservation assessment of Critically Endangered (CR) is recommended for the new species. The paper also summarises current knowledge of phenotypic plasticity within Petalidium in response to environmental variation. This contribution forms part of ongoing taxonomic studies on the genus.

endemism, Engo River, Engo Valley, flora, Hartmann Valley, Iona National Park, Kaokoveld Centre of Endemism, Kunene Region, Namib Desert, Namibe Province, Ruellieae, taxonomy, variation, Eudicots

Petalidium engoense. Habit, vegetative and reproductive features.   
A. Woody stem with fissured bark at the base of a mature plant. B. Flowering shoot with semi-succulent leaves, which are covered in matted, greyish white indumentum and typically ca. folded upward along the midrib for their full length. C. Portion of a plant showing an open flower along with several old inflorescences; the inflorescence axes usually persist and have become spiny with age.

Photographs by W. Swanepoel.

Petalidium engoense. Morphology of inflorescences and flowers.
A. Distal part of a shoot showing both an open flower and a faded, brownish one, along with several bracteoles. B. Old inflorescences with dried, shriveled bracteoles and persistent axes that have become spiny (indicated by arrows). C, E. Frontal view of a flower showing uniformly coloured corolla lobes; the anterior lobe with two yellow, ensiform nectar guides. Visiting ants were feeding on scale insect larvae. D, G. Flower and bracteoles in lateral view. F. Flower with bracteoles, viewed from above. Photographs by W. Swanepoel.

Petalidium engoense. Habitat and habit.
A. Several plants growing among rocks along a seasonal drainage line in the Engo Valley, Kunene Region, Namibia. B. A mature plant (ca. 800 mm tall) displaying a densely branched structure with greyish green foliage. Photographs by W. Swanepoel.

Wessel SWANEPOEL, Rolf W. BECKER and Abraham E. VAN WYK. 2025. Petalidium engoense (Acanthaceae), A New Species from Angola and Namibia, with notes on phenotypic plasticity in the genus.  Phytotaxa. 734(1); 9-19. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.734.1.2 [2025-12-16]

 

[Botany • 2026] Lepidagathis konkanensis (Acanthaceae: Barlerieae) • A New Species from Lateritic Plateaus of Konkan Region of Western Ghats based on morphological and molecular evidence

Lepidagathis konkanensis Mane, Jangam & Patil,  

in Patil, Kadam, Jangam, Dive et Mane. 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05075  

Abstract

Lepidagathis konkanensis, a new species from the lateritic plateaus of the Konkan region in Maharashtra, India, is described and illustrated based on distinct morphological and molecular characters. Morphologically and phylogenetically, this species is close to L. mahakassapae and L. dalzelliana, but it can be distinguished by its compact inflorescence, oblanceolate leaves, bilabiate yellow corolla, elliptic-lanceolate bracteoles with three nerves, shorter style and smaller seeds. In addition, the longer branch length observed in the phylogenetic tree further supports the presence of molecular divergence. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations and color plates of field photographs and floral part micrographs are provided to aid in precise identification. The IUCN conservation status has also been assessed to emphasize the need for conservation measures.

Keywords: molecular phylogeny, Northern Western Ghats, taxonomy, trnL-F, trnS-G

Lepidagathis konkanensis Mane, Jangam & Patil, sp. nov.
 (A) Habit, (B) branch, (C) leaf, (dry), (D) inflorescence: spike, (E) flower: lateral view, (F) flower, (G) floral anatomy, (H) outer bract, (I) inner bract, (J) calyx, (K) androecium, (L) gynoecium, (M) capsule, (N) capsule valves, (O) capsule with seeds, (P) seed.

Lepidagathis konkanensis Mane, Jangam & Patil, sp. nov.
(A) Habitat, (B) vegetative stage, (C) and (D) flowering spikes.

Lepidagathis konkanensis Mane, Jangam & Patil sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: A species similar to L. mahakassapae and L. dalzelliana, but differing in having condensed spikes (versus elongated spikes in L. mahakassapae and elongated or pyramidal spikes in L. dalzelliana), smaller floral bracts with 5–7 nerves (versus larger floral bracts with 7 nerves in L. mahakassapae and with 3–5 nerves in L. dalzelliana), elliptic-lanceolate bracteoles with 3 nerves (versus lanceolate bracteoles with 5 nerves in L. mahakassapae and elliptic-oblong bracteoles with 1 nerve in L. dalzelliana), a shorter style, 8 mm long (versus 14 mm in L. mahakassapae and 14–17 mm in L. dalzelliana), and smaller seeds, 3.0–3.5 × 2.0–2.5 mm (versus 3.0–3.7 × 3.0 mm in L. mahakassapae and 2.8 × 3.0 mm in L. dalzelliana).

 

Etymology: The specific epithet ‘konkanensis' alludes to the geographical region of the type locality, i.e. Konkan region of Maharashtra.

Anant Prakash Patil, Suhas Kishor Kadam, Akshay Prakash Jangam, Ajay Sanjay Dive and Rohit Nivas Mane. 2026. Lepidagathis konkanensis sp. nov. (Acanthaceae: Barlerieae) from Lateritic Plateaus of Konkan Region of Western Ghats based on morphological and molecular evidence. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05075  [13 January 2026]

[Botany • 2020] Strobilanthes sunhangii (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Tibet, China

 

   Strobilanthes sunhangii T. Deng, J.T. Chen & Y.F. Deng, 

in Chen, Huang, Lv, Kuang, Luo, Y.-F. Deng et T. Deng. 2020. 

双曲马蓝  ||  DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.166.58831

Abstract

A new species of Acanthaceae, Strobilanthes sunhangii, is described from Mêdog County, Tibet, China. Morphologically, the new species is closely similar to S. medogensis and S. divaricata, but S. sunhangii differs in having glabrous stems, longer spikes, glabrous rachis, double curved corolla and glabrous calyx, different stamens and style.

Keywords: Mêdog, morphological evidence, new species, Strobilanthes sunhangii

 Photograph of the holotype of  Strobilanthes sunhangii T. Deng, J.T. Chen & Y.F. Deng (KUN barcode 1345286!).

 Strobilanthes sunhangii T. Deng, J.T. Chen & Y.F. Deng
A plant showing flowering branch and leaves B flower (view from side) C pistil, ovary and style D calyx E opened corolla showing androecium (Drawn by Xiaoshuang Zhang based on the holotype of Sunhang19964).

 Strobilanthes sunhangii T. Deng, J.T. Chen & Y.F. Deng
A habitat and flowering branch B, C flowering branch and flower (view from front) D, E flower (view from side) F calyx G style H leaf adaxial surfaces I leaf abaxial surfaces.

Strobilanthes sunhangii T. Deng, J.T. Chen & Y.F. Deng, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Strobilanthes sunhangii resembles S. medogensis, but differs by its stems subterete, glabrous (vs. slightly sulcate, bifariously puberulent); spikes (7–)11–22 cm long (vs. 3–6 cm long), rachis glabrous (vs. bifariously pubescent); corolla outside and lobes pinkish-white, inside purplish-pink (vs. corolla yellowish-white, but dull purple on lobes), the tube bent to ca. 90° twice (vs. straight), lobes apices emarginate (vs. rounded); calyx 7–8 mm long, glabrous, 5-lobed to middle (vs. ca. 12 mm long, gland-tipped pubescent, 5-lobed to base), lobes ovate, equal (vs. narrowly oblong-elliptic, subequal); stamens included (vs. exserted), filaments of shorter pair ca. 2 mm long (vs. 7–8 mm long), longer pair ca. 4 mm long (vs. 9–10 mm long), anther thecae ca. 4 mm (vs. ca.1 mm); style with sparse gland-tipped trichomes (vs. glabrous).

Etymology: Strobilanthes sunhangii is named after Prof. Hang Sun (1963–) for his outstanding contributions to the flora of Himalayan regions and collecting this new species for the first time. Verucular name: The Chinese name is given as “双曲马蓝” (shuāng qū mǎ lán), referring to the double-curved corolla of the new species.

 Jun-Tong Chen, Xian-Han Huang, Zhen-Yu Lv, Tian-Hui Kuang, Jian Luo, Yun-Fei Deng and Tao Deng. 2020. Strobilanthes sunhangii (Acanthaceae), A New Species from Tibet, China. PhytoKeys. 166: 117-127. DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.166.58831

[Botany • 2025] Strobilanthes sirindhorniae (Acanthaceae) • A New Species from Thailand

 

Strobilanthes sirindhorniae Kladwong & Chantar., 

in Kladwong, Modsang et Chantaranothai, 2025. 

Tropical Natural History. Supple. 8; 

ฮ่อมสิรินธร  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.58837/tnh.25.8.267434

Abstract

A species new to science, belonging to Strobilanthes from Thailand is described. Strobilanthes sirindhorniae Kladwong & Chantar., sp. nov. is found on limestone in northern Thailand. It is morphologically similar to S. maxwellii J.R.I.Wood and S. rosea Nees. A comparison table with similar and closely related species and a distribution map, and an illustration of S. sirindhorniae sp. nov. are provided.

 Strobilanthes sirindhorniae Kladwong & Chantar., sp. nov.

ฮ่อมสิรินธร

Pornchai Kladwong, Naphat Modsang and Pranom Chantaranothai. 2025. A New Species of Strobilanthes Blume (Acanthaceae) from Thailand. Tropical Natural History. Supple. 8; 220-226. DOI: doi.org/10.58837/tnh.25.8.267434 [2025-10-14]

[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] Strobilanthes danxiaensis (Acanthaceae) • A New Species endemic to Danxia Mountain in Guangdong Province, China

 

Strobilanthes danxiaensis B.H.Wu, J.F.Zhang & J.Q.Guo, 

in Wu, Zhang, Guo, Wang, Dai, Liu et Fan, 2025. 

丹霞马蓝  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.268.172546

Abstract

Strobilanthes danxiaensis, a new species endemic to the Danxia Mountain region of Guangdong, China, is described herein. Phylogenetic analysis based on nuclear ITS sequences indicates that S. danxiaensis, S. japonica, S. tetrasperma and S. austrosinensis form a well-supported clade. Morphologically, S. danxiaensis is most similar to S. tetrasperma and S. austrosinensis; however, it is readily distinguished from S. tetrasperma by its longer corolla, much broader oblong–obovate and emarginate corolla lobes, and a longer style. It further differs from S. austrosinensis in having larger oblong–obovate, emarginate corolla lobes, shorter filaments, and a longer style. The integration of morphological and molecular evidence supports the recognition of S. danxiaensis as a distinct species.

Key words: Biodiversity, Shaoguan, taxonomy

Strobilanthes danxiaensis.
 A. Wild individuals; B. Habitat; C. Flowering branch; D. Leaves; E. Inflorescence; F. Bud; G. Side view of flower; H. Front view of flower; I. Bracts; J. Bracteoles; K. Calyxs; L. Gynoecium; M. Dissected corolla showing stamens; N. Infructescence; O. Dissected capsule.

Photographed by Jian-Qiang Guo and Bao-Huan Wu.

 Strobilanthes danxiaensis B.H.Wu, J.F.Zhang & J.Q.Guo, sp. nov.

 Chinese name: “dān xiá mă lán” (丹霞马蓝)

Diagnosis. Morphologically, Strobilanthes danxiaensis is most similar to S. tetrasperma, but differs in its longer corolla (2.8–4 cm vs. 1.5–2 cm), with larger, emarginate oblong–obovate corolla lobes (ca. 1 × 1 cm vs. oblong lobes ca. 4 × 5 mm with obtuse apices), and a much longer style (3 cm vs. 1.5 cm).

 Bao-Huan Wu, Ji-Fang Zhang, Jian-Qiang Guo, Wei Wang, Se-Ping Dai, Guo-Feng Liu and Qiang Fan. 2025. Strobilanthes danxiaensis, A New Species of Acanthaceae endemic to Danxia Mountain in Guangdong Province, China. PhytoKeys 268: 69-79. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.268.172546