[Botany • 2026] Ceropegia gengmaensis (Apocynaceae: Ceropegieae) • A New Species from Yunnan, China

 

Ceropegia gengmaensis  P.R.Luo, A.Liu & H.Sun,

in Luo, Liu, Tong, Zhang, Wang, Deng, Goyder et Sun, 2026. 

耿马吊灯花  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.197333

Abstract

Ceropegia gengmaensis P.R.Luo, A.Liu & H.Sun, a new species from Gengma County, Yunnan, Southwest China, is described. Both morphological characteristics and chloroplast phylogenetic analysis strongly support its placement within C. sect. Chionopegia H.Huber. Molecular data further reveal that C. gengmaensis is closely related to C. salicifolia, C. mairei, and C. dolichophylla, yet it can be distinguished from them readily by its stem indumentum, leaf shape, and floral morphology, particularly the shape of the corolla tube, and features of the lobes. A detailed line drawing of this new species is also provided.

Key words: Ceropegieae, Chloroplast, Karst Landform, Morphology, Southwest China

Ceropegia gengmaensis. 
 A, B. Plant showing the rootstock; C, D. Upper and lower sides of leaf; E. Inflorescence with bases of adjoining leaves; F. Corolla tube dissected longitudinally; G. Side view of gynostegium (with sepals and pedicel shown); H. Top view of gynostegium with sepals shown; I. Ovary; J Pollinarium.

 Scale bars: 15 cm (A, B); 5 cm (C, D); 4 cm (E, F); 1 cm (G); 0.8 cm (H); 0.3 cm (I); 0.5 mm (J).

Morphological features of Ceropegia gengmaensis based on living plants collected from the type locality.
 A. Plant showing the rootstock; B, C. Leaf: B, abaxial surface and C, adaxial surface; D. Stem; E, F. Corolla: E, corolla from the outside with its base cut off and F, corolla with the tube dissected longitudinally; G. Small peduncle, part of the pedicel and petiole; H. White hairs on the inside of the base of the tube; I. Side view of gynostegium; J. Gynostegium from above; K. Pollinarium.

Scale bars: 15 cm (A); 5 cm (B, C); 4 cm (D, E, F); 1 cm (G, H, I); 0.8 cm (J); 0.5 mm (K).

Ceropegia gengmaensis P.R.Luo, A.Liu & H.Sun, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Ceropegia gengmaensis shows affinities with C. salicifolia and C. dolichophylla, both of C. sect. Chionopegia . It differs from C. salicifolia by its erect to sprawling habit (vs. twining), elliptic leaves 2.0–5.5 cm (vs. lanceolate, 6–15 cm), densely pubescent stems bearing usually solitary flowers (vs. glabrous stems with sessile cymose many-flowered inflorescences), and narrower corolla lobes with only slight expansion above the throat (vs. lobes longer and wider, upper portion markedly expanded). From C. mairei it differs by the much less pronounced basal inflation of the tube (vs. a strongly inflated tube) and ... 

Etymology. Ceropegia gengmaensis is named after its type locality, Gengma County, Southwest Yunnan.

Vernacular name. the Chinese name is given as “耿马吊灯花” (gěng mă diào dēng huā) named after the type locality, Gengma County, Southwest Yunnan.

Peng-Rui Luo, Ang Liu, Rui Tong, Xin-Jian Zhang, Zi-Yi Wang, Tao Deng, David J. Goyder and Hang Sun. 2026. Ceropegia gengmaensis (Apocynaceae), A New Species from Yunnan, China. PhytoKeys. 276: 217-228. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.197333 [15 Jun 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Polystemma cualense (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from western Mexico

Polystemma cualense  C.D.Sánchez, S.Islas & A.Black, 

in Sánchez-Sánchez, Islas-Hernández et Black, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.176723 

Abstract

A new species of Polystemma is described from the Sierra El Cuale, Jalisco, Mexico. Polystemma cualense is distinguished from its congeners, particularly P. horconesense, by a gynostegial corona higher than the gynostegium, longer external corona lobes, and a black gynostegium. Morphological data were obtained by examining herbarium specimens, consulting digital images from iNaturalist, and reviewing specialized literature. A preliminary conservation assessment based on IUCN criteria indicates that it is a Critically Endangered (CR) species due to its restricted area of occupancy and threats from deforestation, agriculture, and livestock grazing. The discovery of P. cualense increases the known diversity of Polystemma in Jalisco and highlights the floristic importance of the Sierra El Cuale.

Key words: Asclepiadoideae, high diversity, Jalisco, Sierra El Cuale

Polystemma cualense.
A. Complete plant; B. Inflorescence; C. Detail of gynostegium; D. Pollinarium. E. Immature follicle with sepal remnants.

Polystemma cualense C.D.Sánchez, S.Islas & A.Black, sp. nov.

  

Diagnosis. Polystemma cualense resembles P. horconesense in having flowers similar in size and shape. Polystemma cualense differs in having a gynostegial corona higher than the gynostegium (vs. gynostegial corona the same height as the gynostegium), external gynostegial corona lobes 3–4 mm length (vs. 0.5–0.6 mm length) and gynostegium black (vs. gynostegium green-yellowish).

 Cristóbal Daniel Sánchez-Sánchez, Carla Sofía Islas-Hernández and Adam W. Black. 2026. Polystemma cualense (Apocynaceae), A New Species from western Mexico. PhytoKeys. 276: 245-251. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.176723   [18 Jun 2026]

 

[Botany • 2025] Vincetoxicum jinshaense (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from Yunnan, China

 

Vincetoxicum jinshaense X.D. Ma & J.Y. Shen, 

in Ma, Yin, Xi et Shen, 2025.

 DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.062.0152 

 Abstract  

Vincetoxicum jinshaense X.D. Ma & J.Y. Shen (Apocynaceae) is described as a new species from Luquan, Yunnan, China. It morphologically resembles V. yunnanense, V. secamonoides and V. rotundifolium, but differs from them in many features of the leaves and flowers. Based on the IUCN categories and criteria, and considering imminent threats to the species, it is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).

 

Xing-Da Ma, Yi-Qiang Yin, Hou-Cheng Xi, Jian-Yong Shen. 2025. Vincetoxicum jinshaense (Apocynaceae), A New Species from Yunnan, China. Annales Botanici Fennici. 62(1); 327-331. DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.062.0152 (18 November 2025) 

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[Botany • 2022] Hoya longlingensis & H. sichuanensis (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • Two New Species from Southwestern China

Hoya longlingensis E.F. Huang,

Hoya sichuanensis E.F. Huang, 

in E.-F. Huang, Tang, Z-F Zhang, J.-X. Huang, Ou et X.-C. Zhang, 2022. 

 DOI: 10.3390/taxonomy2010008 

Abstract

Hoya longlingensis (E.F. Huang) and H. sichuanensis E.F. Huang are two new species of Apocynaceae from Southwestern China that are described in this study. Morphologically, the two species resemble H. tamdaoensis Rodda & T.B. Tran and H. lyi H. Lév., respectively. However, H. longlingensis differs from H. tamdaoensis by its elliptic leaves, mid-vein of leaf blades raised adaxially and depressed abaxially, lateral veins 2–4-paired, corolla yellow-green, outer angles of corona convex and spreading outside obviously. While H. sichuanensis differs from H. lyi by its obovate leaves, leaf apex rounded and base cuneate, petioles 1–3.5 cm long and ca. 3 mm in diameter, calyx lobes triangular, and corona whitish.  

Keywords: Apocynaceae; Asclepiodoideae; China; Hoya longlingensis; H. sichuanensis; Marsdenieae

 Hoya longlingensis E.F. Huang.
 (A) Habit; (B) Leaves; (C,D) Inflorescence; (E) Flower (top view); (F) Flower (bottom view); (G) Corona (top view); (H) Pollinarium; (I) Corona (side view); (J) Pedicel, calxy, and ovaries; (K,L) Ovaries.  

Hoya sichuanensis E.F. Huang.
 (A,B) Habit; (C) Leaves; (D,E) Inflorescence; (F) Flower (top view); (G) Flower (bottom view); (H) Pedicel, calxy, and ovaries; (I) Calyx lobe; (J) Corona (left: top view; right: side view); (K) Pollinarium; (L) Ovaries.

Er-Feng Huang, Li-Ming Tang, Zhi-Feng Zhang, Jiu-Xiang Huang, Zhen-Fei Ou and Xian-Chun Zhang. 2022. Hoya longlingensis and H. sichuanensis (Apocynaceae), Two New Species from Southwestern China. Taxonomy. 2(1); 99-106. DOI: 10.3390/taxonomy2010008 

 

[Botany • 2026] Ditassa scholaris (Apocynaceae) • A New Species from Bahia (Brazil), in honour of a distinguished scholar of “Asclepiadaceae”

 

Ditassa scholaris Rapini & Giul. 

and D. glaziovii E.Fourn.

in Rapini, Bitencourt, Giulietti et Harley, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10276-x

Summary

As part of ongoing taxonomic studies on Brazilian Apocynaceae and floristic inventories in the state of Bahia, Brazil, we describe and illustrate a new species of Asclepiadoideae. Ditassa scholaris Rapini & Giul. sp. nov. is named in honour of Jorge Fontella Pereira, who dedicated most of his life to studying the “Asclepiadaceae” (now Apocynaceae, subfamily Asclepiadoideae), and described over 90 new species, made 95 new combinations and even more synonyms within the group. The new species is known only from the type specimen within the Caatinga dominion, collected in a northern fragment of the Espinhaço range with an Extent of Occurrence of no more than 10,000 km2. It is threatened by anthropogenic pressure and climate changes and is provisionally assessed as Vulnerable [VU B1ab(i,ii,iii) + D2]. Ditassa scholaris is vegetatively similar to Metastelma giuliettianum Fontella, mainly because of the ovate leaves and the hirsute indumentum covering branches and leaves. Its flowers resemble those of Ditassa glaziovii E.Fourn., particularly due to its double corona, with lobes fused at the base and an internally digitiform segment. However, the erect habit of D. scholaris differentiates it from these twining species. Erect growth has evolved independently in several lineages within the Metastelmatinae core group, predominantly comprising twining plants. We provide a key to distinguish D. scholaris from the other erect species of Metastelmatinae in the Caatinga dominion.

Key Words: Asclepiadoideae, Caatinga, Carrasco, Fontella, Metastelmatinae, taxonomy

Ditassa scholaris (A – D, F – L) and comparison with D. glaziovii (E).
A branches with leaves, flowers and buds; B a pair of leaves showing the hirsute indumentum; C an inflorescence with two open flowers; D, E flowers of Ditassa scholaris (D) and D. glaziovii (E) shown at the same scale for direct comparison of size and morphology; F inner portion of the flower, with calyx and corolla removed, displaying the corona with double lobes positioned in front of the anthers and the apex of the style head in the centre; G – J corona lobe, viewed abaxially (G), laterally (H) and adaxially (J); K anther, abaxial view; L pollinarium. A – D, F – L from the holotype Harley & Giulietti 57032 (HUEFS), E from Rapini et al. 1315 (HUEFS). drawn by a. rapini.

Ditassa scholaris (A – C) and comparison with D. glaziovii (D).
Ditassa scholaris: A branches with leaves, flowers and buds; B portion of a branch showing a closer view of leaves and inflorescences; C close-up of a branch, highlighting the flowers, with lobes burgundy towards the corolla base transitioning to green along the lobe margins, white corona lobes and a greenish style head in the centre.
Ditassa glaziovii: D inflorescence.

A – C from the holotype Harley & Giulietti 57032, in Umburanas, State of Bahia, Brazil, 

D from Rapini et al. 1315, in Licínio de Almeida, State of Bahia, Brazil. 

photos: A – C R. M. harley; D A. rapini.

 

 

Alessandro Rapini, Cassia Bitencourt, Ana Maria Giulietti and Raymond Mervyn Harley. 2026. Ditassa scholaris, A New Species of Apocynaceae from Bahia (Brazil), in honour of a distinguished scholar of “Asclepiadaceae”. Kew Bulletin. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10276-x [05 February 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Ceropegia andhrica (Apocynaceae: Ceropegieae) • A New Species from Andhra Pradesh, India

Ceropegia andhrica  P.Chiranjeevi, K.Prasad & V.Nagaraju,  

in Chiranjeevi, Prasad, Nagaraju, Sujanapal, Sowghandika et Bheemalingappa. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05069

Abstract

A new hysteranthous species of Ceropegia, C. andhrica P.Chiranjeevi, K.Prasad & V.Nagaraju sp. nov. (Apocynaceae), is described from the Paderu forest division, Alluri Sitharamaraju District, Andhra Pradesh, India. It morphologically resembles Ceropegia vemanae and C. ciliatior in features such as the shape and size of tuber, pendulous flowers, reflexed corolla lobes and exposed gynostegium with corona, but differs in having branched or rarely unbranched stem, flowers 4–6 at a node, pedicels 4–10 mm long, sepals subulate or narrowly deltoid, corolla dark purple, densely hairy, lobes 3.4–6.0 mm long, ovate-triangular at base then gradually tapering above, interstaminal corona lobes shortly bilobed with triangular lobules, and staminal corona lobes narrowly oblong, 3-lobed at apex. A detailed description, photographs, and the conservation status of the new species are provided.

Keywords: Asclepiadoideae, Ceropegieae, Hysteranthous, Paderu forest division

Ceropegia andhrica sp. nov. 

(A) Habit with leaves, (B) habit with leaves and follicles, (C) tuber, (D) buds, (E) flowers, (F) follicles, (F) open follicle with seeds.

Ceropegia andhrica sp. nov. 

(A–A2) Habit with flowers, follicles, leaves, (B) buds, (C) flowers, (D) pedicel, (E) corona side view, (F) corona top view, (G) gynostegium with pollinia, (H) pollinia, (I) solitary follicle, (J) paired follicles, (K) seed.

Ceropegia andhrica P.Chiranjeevi, K.Prasad & V.Nagaraju sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: A species showing similarities with Ceropegia vemanae, and to a lesser extent with C. ciliatior, but differs from these two species in having branched or rarely unbranched stem (versus unbranched in C. vemanae and unbranched or sparsely branched in C. ciliatior), lanceolate or elliptic-lanceolate or linear-lanceolate leaves (versus linear-lanceolate to oblong in C. vemanae and acicular to subulate or linear or linear-lanceolate in C. ciliatior), 4–6 flowers at each node (versus solitary in C. vemanae and 2–4 in C. ciliatior), 4–10 mm long pedicels (versus 9–12 mm long in C. vemanae and 15–38 mm long in C. ciliatior), subulate or narrowly deltoid sepals (versus narrowly triangular, ovate-lanceolate or linear-lanceolate in C. vemanae and ovate or ovate-lanceolate in C. ciliatior), dark purple, 3.4–6.0 mm long, densely hairy corolla lobes that are ovate-triangular at base then gradually tapering above, (versus basal portion light brown or creamish with dark rose ornamentation, later becoming uniformly brownish-pink, 7–10 mm long and corolla lobes lanceolate or lanceolate-oblong, completely pilose in C. vemanae and greenish-yellow or pale yellow and violet at apex and with violet streak at middle and 1.5–5.0 mm long corolla lobes narrowly ovate-lanceolate or oblong-ovate, ciliate at apex in C. ciliatior), interstaminal corona lobes shortly bilobed with triangular lobules (versus lobes deeply divided, lobules triangular at base then narrower towards apex in C. vemanae and lobes bifid, lobules orbicular in C. ciliatior) and staminal corona lobes glabrous, narrowly oblong, 3-lobed at apex (versus sparsely pilose, linear or linear-oblong, obtuse at apex in C. vemanae and glabrous, ovate, obtuse at apex in C. ciliatior).

 

Etymology: The new species is named after the Andhra Pradesh state of India.

 

Pabbathi Chiranjeevi, Kothareddy Prasad, Vallepu Nagaraju, Puthiapurayal Sujanapal, Marapareddy Sowghandika and Madiga Bheemalingappa. 2026. Ceropegia andhrica (Apocynaceae), A New Species from Andhra Pradesh, India. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05069 [25 January 2026]

[Botany • 2025] Vincetoxicum jinshaense (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from Yunnan, China

Vincetoxicum jinshaense X.D. Ma & J.Y. Shen, 

in Ma, Yin, Xi et Shen, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.062.0152 

 XTBG.cas.cn

 

Abstract

Vincetoxicum jinshaense X.D. Ma & J.Y. Shen (Apocynaceae) is described as a new species from Luquan, Yunnan, China. It morphologically resembles V. yunnanense, V. secamonoides and V. rotundifolium, but differs from them in many features of the leaves and flowers. Based on the IUCN categories and criteria, and considering imminent threats to the species, it is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).

Vincetoxicum jinshaense X.D. Ma & J.Y. Shen sp. nov. 

Xing-Da Ma, Yi-Qiang Yin, Hou-Cheng Xi and Jian-Yong Shen. 2025. Vincetoxicum jinshaense (Apocynaceae), a New Species from Yunnan, China. Annales Botanici Fennici. 62(1):327-331. DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.062.0152  [18 November 2025]

 XTBG.cas.cn/2022/wzbc/xmcg/khbma

[Botany • 2026] Hoya nagaensis (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from Phek District, Nagaland, Northeast India

Hoya nagaensis Koza, Pegu & G.Yam, 

in Koza, Pegu et Yam. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10359-9

Summary

Hoya nagaensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), a new species from the state of Nagaland, India is here described and illustrated. The new species has close morphological affinity with H. thomsonii and H. coronaria. It can be clearly distinguished by its densely hairy corolla lobes, both internally and externally; irregular pinkish to reddish-purple spots on the external corolla surface and, though less pronounced, on the inner surface and narrowly elliptic-lanceolate leaves, with smooth surfaces and long acuminate tips. A detailed morphological description, habitat information, preliminary conservation assessment, notes and comparison with closely related species, H. coronaria, H. carnosa, H. spectatissima, H. bella and H. thomsonii are provided.

Key Words: Eastern Himalaya, epiphyte, Kavünhou Community Reserved Forest, temperate forest 

 

Hoya nagaensis 
 in Kavünhou CRF, Khezhakeno, Phek, India.

Hoya nagaensis Koza, Pegu & G.Yam sp. nov. 

Etymology. The specific epithet “nagaensis” is dedicated to “Nagaland”, where the new species was discovered. The name honours both the cultural and ecological significance of the locality, reflecting the close relationship between the Naga community and the surrounding forest ecosystem.

 

Vieneite-o Koza, Joynath Pegu and Gyati Yam. 2026. Hoya nagaensis (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) — A New Species from Phek District, Nagaland, Northeast India. Kew Bulletin. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10359-9  [08 January 2026]

[Botany • 2025] Hoya thuhae (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from central Vietnam and H. lobbii, new record for Vietnam

Hoya thuhae Aver., Vuong & V.C.Nguyen⁣, 

in Tran, V. C. Nguyen, Averyanov, Wook, Truong, V. K. Nguyen, Maisak et Shvanova, 2025.  

turczaninowia.asu.ru/article/view/18531 

facebook.com: Nguyễn Văn Cảnh

Abstract

A new species, Hoya thuhae (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), from lowland areas of central Vietnam, is described. It resembles H. kerrii but may be distinguished by its finely pubescent petioles, puberulous leaf blade, longer peduncle, longer pilose to strigose pedicels, different shape of the calyx lobes, and elliptic corolla segments with apices raised above the central portion. Additionally, H. lobbii, known earlier in NE India, Thailand, and Cambodia, is recorded for Vietnam at first. Data on the ecology, phenology, distribution, and conservation status for both species are provided, together with plates compiled from original color analytical photos.

Keywords: flora of Vietnam, Hoya kerrii, plant diversity, plant taxonomy

Thi T. N. Tran, Van C. Nguyen, Leonid V. Averyanov, Um S. Wook, Ba V. Truong, Van K. Nguyen, Tatyana V. Maisak and Valeria V. Shvanova. 2025. Hoya thuhae (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), A New Species and H. lobbii, new record for Vietnam.  Turczaninowia. 28(4); 144–150. DOI: 10.14258/turczaninowia.28.4.17 [2025-12-25] 

turczaninowia.asu.ru/article/view/18531 

 facebook.com/canhorchid/posts/10229724189551490

 

[Botany • 2025] Polystemma margaritadelacerdae (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from Aguascalientes, Mexico

Polystemma margaritadelacerdae  J. Martínez-Ramírez, L.O. Alvarado & Ocampo, 

in Ocampo, Martínez-Ramírez et Alvarado-Cárdenas, 2025. 

  DOI: doi.org/10.17129/botsci.3600 

Abstract

Background: Polystemma has about 27 species distributed from southeastern United States to central Costa Rica. Plant collecting activities detected one taxon that does not fit the description of previously known species of the genus.

Methods: Recently collected plant material was studied to prepare a morphological description. The conservation status of the new taxon was evaluated, following the IUCN Red List criteria.

Results: Polystemma margaritadelacerdae is proposed as a new species because of the presence of a green corolla, an exserted cylindrical gynostegial corona, with a fimbriate to denticulate lobe apex. At the moment, the new taxon is categorized as Vulnerable (VU).

Conclusions: A new species of Polystemma is described and the number of Apocynaceae species that occur in Aguascalientes increases to 25.

Keywords: Asclepiadoideae, central Mexico, subtropical shrubland, taxonomic novelty

Polystemma margaritadelacerdae J. Martínez-Ramírez, L.O. Alvarado & Ocampo, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. The new species is similar to Polystemma pueblensis by its green corolla and exerted gynostegial corona; it differs by its cylindrical corona (vs. campanulate) and by the presence of an internal and external gynostegial corona with lobes apically fimbriate to denticulate (vs. rugulose to verrucose).

Gilberto Ocampo, Julio Martínez-Ramírez and Leonardo O. Alvarado-Cárdenas. 2025. A New Species of Polystemma (Apocynaceae) from Aguascalientes, Mexico.  Botanical Sciences. 103(1); 311-318. DOI: doi.org/10.17129/botsci.3600 

[Botany • 2024] Asclepias gordaensis (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from the Sierra Gorda, Guanajuato-Querétaro, México

Asclepias gordaensis L.O. Alvarado & S. Islas, 

in Alvarado-Cárdenas et Islas-Hernández, 2024.

DOI: doi.org/10.21829/abm131.2024.2338

Abstract

Background and Aims: Asclepias is a highly diverse genus within Apocynaceae, with 78 species in Mexico, being the most diverse taxon of the family in the country. Due to its complex morphology and similarities in floral characters, some taxa have been misidentified. In the present work, a new species is described for the genus.

Methods: Individuals were collected in the Sierra Gorda that could not be assigned to known species. National and foreign herbaria, digital databases, and specialized literature were reviewed to compare the collected specimens with similar species. Field expeditions were conducted in 2018 and 2023 to collect and monitor the phenology of the species of interest. The cohesive species concept was proposed as an explanatory hypothesis for the recognition of the taxa treated here. The conservation status was assigned following the IUCN criteria.

Results: A new species of Asclepias is described, known from the states of Guanajuato and Querétaro, distributed in pine, oak, and cloud forests. It differs from similar species by its gynostegial corona with bell-shaped hoods of rounded base, and linear to linear-lanceolate cornicles emerging from the base of the hood. Photographic plates, a distribution map, and a comparative plate between similar species are included, as well as a dichotomous key with similar species and those distributed in the states of Guanajuato and Querétaro. Based on its reduced distribution area and impacted habitat, it is considered a species at risk according to IUCN criteria.

Conclusions: In Mexico, Asclepias includes 79 species, reaffirming the country as a center of diversity for the genus. The new species forms a morphologically complex group with the species compared here, so it has gone unnoticed and been identified erroneously. The detailed review of morphology allowed suggesting these plants as a hypothesis of a species different from the rest.

   

Keywords: Asclepiadeae, endemism, gynostegial corona, horns

Asclepias gordaensis L.O. Alvarado & S. Islas sp. nov.  

 Asclepias gordaensis is morphologically similar to Asclepias pringlei (Greenm.) Woodson by its flowers less than 1 cm long and the presence or absence of horns, but is distinguished by its gynostegial corona with rounded-base campanulate hoods (vs. sagittate-appearing, truncate-based hoods in A.  pringlei), linear to linear-lanceolate horns larger than the hood (vs. subacicular without exceeding the hood) arising from the base of the hood (vs. arising from the middle or top of the hood).

 

Leonardo O. Alvarado-Cárdenas and Carla Sofía Islas-Hernández. 2024. A New Asclepias (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) from the Sierra Gorda, Guanajuato-Querétaro, México.  Acta Botanica Mexicana. 131;  DOI: doi.org/10.21829/abm131.2024.2338

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[Botany • 2022] Gonolobus caamalii (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae: Gonolobeae) • Twice Lost, Twice Found: A New Species with A Reappraisal of the Genus in the Yucatan Peninsula Biotic Province

 

 Gonolobus caamalii Carnevali & R. Duno, 

in Carnevali, Romero-Gonzalez, Tapia-Muñoz, Ramírez-Morillo, Ramírez-Díaz, Cetzal-Ix, Duno de Stefano et Romero-Soler, 2022. 

DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.530.2.2 

Abstract

Gonolobus is reassessed in the Yucatan Peninsula Biotic Province (YPBP). The genus consists of seven taxa in the area: six species and two subspecies. These include a taxon that we propose here as a new species and the treatment of G. yucatanensis as a subspecies of G. stenanthus and the new combination G. stenanthus subsp. yucatanensis is proposed. These two taxa are endemic to the YPBP. The other species are G. barbatus (for which we propose a lectotype), G. cteniophorus, G. fraternus, G. glaberrimus, and G. leianthus. The new species is Gonolobus caamalii Carnevali & R. Duno, restricted to the Yucatán state in Mexico and distinguished by its corolla lobes with a dark purple (almost black) longitudinal, callose band along the proximal 2/3 on the right side of the lobes and a 1.1–1.3 mm broad, annular, continuous dark purple-black band surrounding the gynostemium and corona at the base of the corolla lobes. It appears related to G. leianthus from southern Megamexico, a species from humid forests at higher elevations and that differs in its larger flowers with broader corolla lobes and a strikingly different color pattern in the flowers. The new species is described, illustrated, and discussed. Entries for all Gonolobus species from the YPBP include a brief discussion and specimen citations. The conservation status of the Gonolobus taxa endemic to the YPBP are assessed either as as Endangered (EN) or as Near threatened (NT). Distributional maps for all Gonolobus from the area covered are presented. Finally, we offer a key to Gonolobus of the YPBP.

Keywords: Gonolobus barbatus, G. fraternus, G. glaberrimus, G. leianthus, G. stenanthus, milkweeds, new species, taxonomy, Eudicots

 Gonolobus caamalii Carnevali & R. Duno.
A. Habit of a flowering plant with flower buds. B. Frontal view of the flower. C. Abaxial view of the corolla, calyx removed. D. Abaxial view of the calyx. E. Abaxial view of the calix. F. Gynostemium detached from the corolla. G. Abaxial view of the corona, with sectioned bilocular ovary. H. Corona, adaxial view. I–J. Abaxial (I) and adaxial (J) views of detached anthers, without appendages. K. Pollinarium, upside down. Based upon G. Carnevali 8579 (CICY, spirits).

  

  Gonolobus caamalii Carnevali & R. Duno 

Eponymy: Named after Miguel Ángel Caamal Dzul, of Chan Yokdzonot 2, Yucatán, who collected for the second time this interesting species. He has a keen eye for rare plants and enthusiastically collects, cultivates, and photographs the native flora.

 

German Carnevali, Gustavo A. Romero-Gonzalez, José Luis Tapia-Muñoz, Ivón M. Ramírez-Morillo, Claudia J. Ramírez-Díaz, William Cetzal-Ix, Rodrigo Duno de Stefano, Katya J. Romero-Soler. 2022. Twice Lost, Twice Found: A New Species of Gonolobus (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) with A Reappraisal of the Genus in the Yucatan Peninsula Biotic Province. Phytotaxa. 530(2); 141-162. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.530.2.2 

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[Botany • 2025] Hoya biruensis (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New night-blooming Species of Hoya from Borneo

Hoya biruensis Rodda & S.Rahayu,

in Rodda et Rahayu, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.04787  

  facebook.com/MicheleRodda

illustration by Eunike Nugroho www.instagram.com/inikeke

Abstract

In the present paper, we describe Hoya biruensis, a new species from Borneo, Indonesia, West Kalimantan. It is characterised by a shrubby epiphytic pendulous habit, linear leaves, exceptionally long green peduncles produced at almost every node, and single, night-blooming flowers. We compare it to two morphologically similar species, H. spartioides and H. retrorsa, which are also endemic to Borneo.

Keywords: epiphyte, Hoya retrorsa, Hoya spartioides Indonesia, West Kalimantan

Hoya biruensis Rodda & S.Rahayu, sp. nov. 

illustration by Eunike Nugroho 

www.instagram.com/inikeke

 

Hoya biruensis Rodda & S.Rahayu, sp. nov.  

Michele Rodda and Sri Rahayu. 2025. A New night-blooming Species of Hoya (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) from Borneo. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.04787 [17 April 2025]

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[Botany • 2025] Dictyanthus reflexiflorus (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) • A New Species from Mexico

Dictyanthus reflexiflorus  Lozada-Pérez, E.B. Cortez & Martínez-Ambriz, 

in Lozada-Pérez, Cortez, Perez-Garcia, GONZÁLEZ et Martínez-Ambriz, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.682.3.1 

Abstract

A new species of Dictyanthus from the state of Michoacan, Mexico, is described and illustrated Dictyanthus reflexiflorus sp. nov. It grows in tropical deciduous forests located in the municipality of Tacámbaro. A phylogenetic analysis based on molecular data (plastid regions trnL-trnF and rps 16) was conducted to explore the relationship of the new species. Results place the new species in Dictyanthus. The morphological characters that support this relationship are the presence of uncinate hairs and a reticulate corolla. The species has unique characteristics within the genus, such as a reflexed corolla and the tube 10-lobed closely pressed to the side of the gynostegium. A key to distinguish Dictyanthus reflexiflorus from congeners in Mexico is included.

Asclepiadoideae, endemic, Gonolobinae, Michoacán, phylogeny, Eudicots

Dictyanthus reflexiflorus.
 A. Plant with inflorescences. B. Close-up of branch showing mixed indumentum. C. Close-up of thichomes. D. Colleters at base of leaf-blade. E. Inflorescence. F. Close-up of the indument of the abaxial surface of the corolla. G. Gynostegium with style-head. H. Gynostegial corona lobe in posterior view. I. Gynostegial corona lobe in frontal view. J. Pollinarium. Arrows showing the corolla lobes.

Illustrations by Ericka B. Cortez, based on Lozada-Pérez et al. 3835.

Dictyanthus reflexiflorus.
 A-C. Plant and inflorescences with mature flowers. D. Side view of corolla and gynostegium. E. Dried flower. F. Flower fixed in alcohol. G. Vertical section of corona and gynostegium. (GC: Gynostegial corona, G: Style head, black arrows = tube lobes, gray arrows = corpuscle and blue arrows = keels).

Photos by María de la Luz Perez-Garcia and Lucio LozadaPérez.

Dictyanthus reflexiflorus Lozada-Pérez, E.B. Cortez & Martínez-Ambriz, sp.nov. 

Dictyanthus reflexiflorus shares a climbing habit with D. altatensis (Brandegee) Stevens (2000: 243) but differs from it by the reflexed corolla 10-lobed at base and inflorescence with peduncles 3–4 mm long (vs. corolla rotate, without lobes at the base and inflorescence with peduncles 4–8 cm long).

Etymology:—The epithet reflexiflorus refers to the reflexed corolla, a distinctive feature that is unique in Dictyanthus. 

Lucio LOZADA-PÉREZ, Ericka B. CORTEZ, Maria De La Luz PEREZ-GARCIA, César Ramiro Martínez GONZÁLEZ and Emmanuel MARTÍNEZ-AMBRIZ. 2025. Dictyanthus reflexiflorus (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) A New Species from Mexico.  Phytotaxa. 682(3); 199-213. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.682.3.1 

 

[Botany • 2023] Vincetoxicum sangyojarniae (Apocynaceae: Asclepiodoideae) • Molecular Phylogenetic and Morphological Analyses support Recognition of A New Species of Vincetoxicum from eastern Thailand

 

Vincetoxicum sangyojarniae A.Kidyoo,

in A. Kidyoo et M. Kidyoo, 2023.

 DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s00606-023-01866-y 

Abstract

An unknown Vincetoxicum species has recently been discovered in eastern Thailand. It is a twiner that resembles in its morphology Vincetoxicum flexuosum s.l., a variable taxon widely occurring from tropical Asia to Australia. Morphological examination showed that despite similarities in growth habit, leaf shape, gross appearance of inflorescence structure and flower colour, these two elements exhibit substantial differences in both vegetative and floral characters that clearly distinguish one from the other, particularly shape of the flower bud and indumentum on the corolla lobes. In addition, we also evaluated phylogenetic relationships based on DNA sequence data for ITS, trnT-L, trnL and trnL-F markers of this new Vincetoxicum sp. with congeners (including, inter alia, new sequences of the two varieties recognized in Thailand of V. flexuosum s.l., i.e. var. flexuosum and var. tenue). The analyses demonstrated that the new Vincetoxicum sp. is not closely related to the taxa recognized in V. flexuosum s.l. Instead, it was retrieved as sister to a clade containing the African taxa, Vincetoxicum caffrum, Vincetoxicum lycioides and Vincetoxicum fleckii. Therefore, integrated analyses of morphology and molecular phylogeny revealed the new Vincetoxicum sp. to be a well-defined species clearly distinct from V. flexuosum s.l., as well as from all other known congeners. The morphological similarity between the new Vincetoxicum sp. and V. flexuosum s.l. likely resulted from convergence, leading to various taxonomic complications. We here describe it as a new species, Vincetoxicum sangyojarniae, sp. nov., and provide a detailed description, illustration and photographs. Moreover, as phylogenetic relationships revealed that V. flexuosum s.l. is not monophyletic in its actual circumscription, a taxonomic reconsideration of this taxon is suggested.

Keywords: Convergence, Phylogeny, The Vincetoxicum flexuosum complex, Tylophora, Tylophorinae

Vincetoxicum sangyojarniae A.Kidyoo, sp. nov.

—TYPE: Thailand, Surin Province, 

Muang district, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan Surin Campus, ....

Etymology: The specific epithet ‘sangyojarniae’ is given in honour of Asst. Prof. Pacharaporn Sangyojarn, the senior botanist of the Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, who first discovered and drew our attention to the plant.

 

Aroonrat Kidyoo and Manit Kidyoo. 2023. Molecular Phylogenetic and Morphological Analyses support Recognition of A New Species of Vincetoxicum (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) from eastern Thailand.  Plant Systematics and Evolution. 309, 27. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s00606-023-01866-y 

 Researchgate.net/publication/372444224_a_new_species_of_Vincetoxicum_from_eastern_Thailand