[Botany • 2026] Bryobium scutatum (Orchidaceae) • A New Species of Bryobium from Sumatra, Indonesia [Flora of Gayo Plateau IV]

 

Bryobium scutatum  Mustaqim, J.Champion & Schuit.,

in Schuiteman, Mustaqim et Champion, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.15517/hae3ah55 

  facebook.com: Jeffrey Champion 

Abstract

A new species of Bryobium Lindl. is described based on specimens collected in northern Gayo Plateau, Sumatra. It is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) due to its narrow range and imminent threats to its habitat. A detailed description, photographs, an illustration, and a key to Sumatran Bryobium species are provided. 

Keywords: epiphyte, key, Red List, taxonomy, Indonesia

 Morphology of Bryobium scutatum.
 A. Sterile stem. B. Plant in flower. C. Inflorescence. D. Flowers. E. Flower, front view. F. Flower, lateral view. G. Dorsal sepals, abaxial and adaxial views. H. Lateral sepals, abaxial and adaxial views. I. Petals, adaxial and abaxial views. J. Column and lip, lateral view. K. Lip, adaxial view. L. Lip, adaxial view. M. Lip, lateral view. N. Lip, front view. O. Column and column-foot, ventral view. P. Anther cap, ventral views without and with the pollinarium. Q. Pollinia.

Photographs after Mustaqim et al. 4045 by Wendy A. Mustaqim (A-L and O-P) and after cult. J. Champion s.n. by Jeffrey Champion (M-N).

Bryobium scutatum Mustaqim, J.Champion & Schuit., sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: The new species is superficially similarto B. pullum from Sulawesi but differs in havinglarger floral parts (e.g., sepals 9.5–10.0 vs. 6 mm),a lip mid-lobe (epichile) with a central callus andtwo calli at the base (vs. mid-lobe without calli), lipnot constricted (vs. lip abruptly constricted near themiddle), basal calli of the lip shield-like ( vs. basalcalli ridge-like). The base of the lip is dark reddish ...

Etymology: From the Latin scutatus, ‘carrying ashield’, referring to the shield-like calli on the lip.

André Schuiteman, Wendy A. Mustaqim and Jeffrey Champion. 2026. Flora of Gayo Plateau IV: A New Species of Bryobium (Orchidaceae) from Gayo Plateau, Sumatra. LANKESTERIANA. 26(2); 93–100. DOI: doi.org/10.15517/hae3ah55 

  facebook.com/JeffreyChampion5/posts/27836172582738337

 Researchgate.net/publication/408315562_A_new_species_of_Bryobium_from_Gayo_Plateau_Sumatra

  

[Botany • 2026] Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from Guangxi, China

Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis Y.Nong & G.Y.Wei, 

in Wei, J.-Y. Li, Chen, Y. Nong, Hu, Y.-J. Li, Ji, Xu et Y.-K. Nong. 2026. 

忻城螺序草  |  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.194094

Abstract

Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis (Rubiaceae), a new species from the middle part of Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated on the basis of morphological evidence. This new species resembles Ophiorrhiza longanensis in its densely pubescent stems, linear stipules, terminal or upper axillary inflorescences, but it can be distinguished by its elliptic or oblanceolate leaf blade, base attenuate (vs. oval, ovate to broadly ovate, base cuneate), its 2–3 mm long stipules (vs. 3.8–6.5 mm long), its 3–5 mm long bracteoles (vs. 6–10 mm long) its 10–12 mm long corolla tubes (vs. 2–3 mm long) and its filaments adnate at the middle of corolla tube, styles 12–15 mm long (vs. adnate to the base of corolla tube and styles ca. 3 mm long). The new species is currently known from a single population with approximately 60–100 mature individuals. Following IUCN Criteria, it is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered. Photographs, an illustration and a distribution map are also provided.

Key words: Karst, new species, Ophiorrhiza, Spiradiclis, taxonomy

Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis Y.Nong & G.Y.Wei.
A. Habitat; B, C. Flowering plant; D. Stem, showing the linear stipules; E. Inflorescences; F. Fruiting plant; G. Dissected brevistylous flower; H. Dissected longistylous flower; I. Hypanthium, calyx, style and stigma; J. Ovary and calyx; K. Stigma; L. Bracts; M, N. Leaf (abaxially and adaxially); O. Capsule; P. Seeds.

Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis Y.Nong & G.Y.Wei, sp. nov.

 

Chinese name. “xīn chéng luó xù cǎo” (忻城螺序草).

Diagnosis. Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis is resembles Ophiorrhiza longanensis (R.J.Wang) Razafim. & Rydin in its densely pubescent stems, linear stipules, terminal or upper axillary inflorescences, but it can be distinguished by its elliptic or oblanceolate leaf blade, base attenuate (vs. oval, ovate to broadly ovate, base cuneate), its 2–3 mm long stipules (vs. 3.8–6.5 mm long), its 3–5 mm long bracteoles (vs. 6–10 mm long), its 10–12 mm long corolla tubes (vs. 2–3 mm long) and its filaments adnate at the middle of corolla tube, styles 12–15 mm long (vs. adnate to the base of corolla tube, styles ca. 3 mm long).

Etymology. The specific epithet “xinchengensis” refers to the type location of the new species.

 Gui-Yuan Wei, Jin-Yue Li, Rong Chen, You Nong, Qi-Min Hu, Ying-Jing Li, Xing-Yun Ji, Chuan-Gui Xu, Yun-Kai Nong. 2026. Ophiorrhiza xinchengensis (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys. 278: 1-14.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.194094 [24-07-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Cryptanthus pataxoanus & C. beuckeri • Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century

 

Cryptanthus pataxoanus  Forzza & Leme,

in Leme, Fernandez, Fontana, Almeida et Forzza, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1 

Abstract

The authors describe and illustrate a new species of Cryptanthus, C. pataxoanus, found within the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, and present new data on its closest morphological relative, C. beuckeri, both endemic to the Atlantic Forest of the state of Bahia, Brazil, and assessed as Critically Endangered (CR). The new taxon represents one of the most ornamental discoveries in recent years due to its marbled foliage, with contrasting greenish-yellow and dark green colors, which is similar to C. beuckeri. The main differences between C. pataxoanus and its closest relative include leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, the much broader portion of the blades distinctly longer, the narrower sepals covered by brown-centered trichomes, and petals without glandulose trichomes. The discovery of the new species results from cooperative work with the Pataxó indigenous community living in Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands, located within the boundaries of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park. It symbolizes the inexhaustible richness of the Brazilian biodiversity in general and the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia in particular, despite its current coexistence with high levels of threat.

Monocots, Atlantic Forest, Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, morphology, taxonomy

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A, B. Details of the population at the type locality. C. Habit. Photos: S. Caram (A, B); E. Leme (C).

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A. Elongate stem. B. Details of the marginal spines. C. Inflorescence. D. Details of the inflorescence. E–O. Perfect flower. E. Floral bracts of the basal fascicles. F. Sepals. G. Petal and stamens. H. Stigma. I. Frontal view of the anther just before anthesis. J. Abaxial view of the anther just before the anthesis. K. Basal fascicle. L. Flower. M. Basal portion of the petal and stamens. N. Details of the apex of the sepals. O. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary. P–T. Staminate flower: P. Flower of the inner portion of the inflorescence. Q. Floral bract. R. Details of the apex of the sepal. S. Sepals. T. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary.

 Photos: E. Leme. Bars: A = 2 cm; B, C, K, L, P = 1 cm; D–G, M–O, Q–T = 5 mm; H–J = 1 mm.

 Cryptanthus pataxoanus Forzza & Leme, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis:—This new species can be distinguished from its morphologically closest relative, Cryptanthus beuckeri, by the leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, with subpetioles gradually merging into the much broader distal portion (vs. always distinctly petiolate, with petioles strongly contrasting with the much broader distal portion); the much broader portion of the blades longer (20–30 cm vs. 10–20 cm long); sepals with narrower lobes (vs. 2–2.5 mm vs. 3.5–4 mm wide) covered by distinctly brown-centered trichomes (vs. trichomes white); and petals without glandulose trichomes (vs. adaxially bearing glandulose trichomes).

Etymology:—The name of this new species honors the Pataxó indigenous people. They belong to the Macro-Jê linguistic family and have a long history of resistance, facing challenges such as reclaiming their traditional lands and promoting the value of their culture since the 16th century. The Pataxó predominantly inhabit the extreme south of Bahia, which includes the area of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park where the Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands are located. They maintain strong traditions, such as the Patxohã language, rituals (like the Awê), and the use of body paintings that serve as cultural identifiers, in addition to promoting the conservation of the environment within their traditional natural territory.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus.
B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus. B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.
C–F. Illegal selective logging and habitat degradation associated with mule trampling used for clandestine timber extraction inside the park. Photos: R.C. Forzza (B); C. Rodrigues (C, D, E, F).

ELTON M. C. LEME, EDUARDO P. FERNANDEZ, ANDRÉ P. FONTANA, PEDRO S. DE ALMEIDA and RAFAELA C. FORZZA. 2026. Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae, Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century.  Phytotaxa. 763(3); 201-218. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1  [2026-06-24]

[Botany • 2026] Nymphoides crucioides, N. miniata, N. thailandica, ... • Integration of Cytogenetics and Morphology for the Taxonomic Revision of Nymphoides (Menyanthaceae) in Thailand including Five New Species

 

Nymphoides miniata Noppornch. & Suwanph.,

in Suwanphakdee, Nopporncharoenkul et Hodkinson, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.aquabot.2026.104044 

facebook.com: Flora of Thailand

Highlights: 

• A full revision of Thai Nymphoides based on morphology and cytogenetic evidence is provided.

• Cytogenetic and morphological evidence supports Nymphoides species boundaries.

• Ten Nymphoides species are described in Thailand, including five new endemic species

Abstract 

A taxonomic revision of Nymphoides (Menyanthaceae) in Thailand was undertaken using cytogenetics and morphology. Specimens were collected throughout Thailand. Cytogenetic analyses were conducted on living collections. The morphological characters used in the descriptions of all taxa were measured from living specimens, which were subsequently maintained for ex-situ conservation. We provide a new generic description, a key to species, and descriptions of all species. Line drawings are provided for the five new species and color photographic illustrations are provided for all taxa. Herbarium voucher specimens were prepared and deposited in Thai herbaria. Ten species are recognized in Thailand, including five new species described in the present study for the first time, namely Nymphoides chumphonense, N. crucioides, N. miniata, N. thailandica and N. thungyaiense. Cytogenetic evidence supports the proposed species boundaries of Thai Nymphoides.

 

Keywords: Aquatic plants, Terrarium plants, Tropical plants, Wetland

Nymphoides chumphonense Suwanph. 

Nymphoides crucioides Suwanph. & Hodk. 

Nymphoides miniata Noppornch. & Suwanph. 

Nymphoides thungyaiense Suwanph & Noppornch. 

 Nymphoides thailandica Suwanph. 

 

Chalermpol Suwanphakdee, Nattapon Nopporncharoenkul and Trevor R. Hodkinson. 2026. Integration of Cytogenetics and Morphology for the Taxonomic Revision of Nymphoides (Menyanthaceae) in Thailand including Five New Species. Aquatic Botany. 207, 104044. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.aquabot.2026.104044 

 facebook.com/100076669068795/posts/1042839654948327

🌸 มหาวิทยาลัยเกษตรศาสตร์ พบบัวบาชนิดใหม่ของโลก 5 ชนิด จากแหล่งน้ำของประเทศไทย บ่งชี้ถึงความร่ำรวยทรัพยากรพืชของไทย และความสำคัญของงานวิจัยวิทยาศาสตร์พื้นฐาน ของสถาบันการศึกษา💚

นักวิจัย มก นำโดย รศ.ดร. เฉลิมพล สุวรรณภักดี จากภาควิชาพฤกษศาสตร์ คณะวิทยาศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยเกษตรศาสตร์ ค้นพบบัวบาชนิดใหม่ของโลกจำนวน 5 ชนิด โดยตีพิมพ์เผยแพร่การค้นพบนี้ในวารสาร Aquatic Botany ฉบับปี 2026 การค้นพบครั้งนี้เป็นการบูรณาการวิจัยร่วมระหว่างหน่วยงานซึ่งประกอบด้วย ดร. ณัฐพล นพพรเจริญกุล นักวิจัย จากองค์การพิพิธภัณฑ์วิทยาศาสตร์แห่งชาติ (อพวช) และ Prof. Dr. Trevor R. Hodkinson จากทรินิตี้คอลเลจ มหาวิทยาลัยแห่งกรุงดับลิน ประเทศไอร์แลนด์ โดยเป็นการบูรณาการวิจัยร่วมทางด้านอนุกรมวิธานพืช สัณฐานวิทยาและเซลล์วิทยา 

.

รศ.ดร. เฉลิมพล สุวรรณภักดี  กล่าวว่า พืชสกุลบัวบา (Nymphoides) วงศ์ Menyanthaceae เป็นพืชน้ำที่มีการใช้ประโยชน์ทางด้านการใช้เป็นพืชประดับ และผักพื้นบ้าน ในประเทศไทยเคยมีรายงาน 5 ชนิด จากการศึกษาวิจัยพบว่า บัวบาของประเทศไทยมีทั้งหมด 10 ชนิด และเป็นพืชชนิดใหม่ของโลก 5 ชนิด แต่ละชนิดมีศักยภาพในการนำไปใช้ประโยชน์ทางด้านการใช้เป็นพืชประดับสวนขวด สวนกระจก และตู้ไม้น้ำ อีกทั้งยังเน้นให้ตระหนักถึงการอนุรักษ์แหล่งน้ำจืด ซึ่งเป็นที่อยู่ของพืชชนิดเหล่านี้ บ่งชี้ถึงความร่ำรวยทรัพยากรพืชของประเทศไทย และความสำคัญของงานวิจัยวิทยาศาสตร์พื้นฐาน 

บัวบา 5 ชนิดนี้ประกอบด้วย 

.

1. สายติ้ง หรือ สายติ่ง Nymphoides chumphonense Suwanph. 

 พบในแหล่งน้ำจืดตื้นๆ บริเวณ จ. ชุมพร และสุราษฎร์ธานี  โดยตั้งชื่อตาม จ. ชุมพร สถานที่พบตัวอย่างเป็นที่แรก พืชชนิดนี้มีการใช้ประโยชน์เป็นผักพื้นบ้าน โดยกินสดกับน้ำพริก และมีขายในตลาด ถูกจัดสถานะใกล้สูญพันธุ์ (Endangered: EN) เนื่องจากการสูญเสียแหล่งที่อยู่ และการรุกรานของน้ำเค็ม อีกทั้งติดผลและเมล็ดได้น้อย

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2. บัวบาหัวลูกศร Nymphoides crucioides Suwanph. & Hodk. 

 พบในแหล่งน้ำจืดตื้นๆ และในนาข้าว บริเวณ จ. ปราจีนบุรี และยะลา โดยตั้งชื่อตามลักษณะดอกที่คล้ายกากบาท  พืชชนิดนี้มีศักยภาพในการนำไปใช้เป็นไม้ประดับสวนขวด สวนกระจก และตู้ไม้น้ำ มีทั้งที่มีฟอร์มน้ำและฟอร์มบก ถูกจัดสถานะใกล้สูญพันธุ์อย่างยิ่ง (Critically Endangered - CR) เนื่องจากการสูญเสียแหล่งที่อยู่ และการใช้สารกำจัดวัชพืช  

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3. บาจิ๋ว Nymphoides miniata Noppornch. & Suwanph. 

 เป็นบัวบาที่มีขนาดเล็กที่สุดของโลก พบในแหล่งน้ำจืดตื้นๆ และในนาข้าว บริเวณ จ. ปราจีนบุรี โดยตั้งชื่อตามลักษณะดอกที่มีขนาดเล็กที่สุดของโลก พืชชนิดนี้มีศักยภาพในการนำไปใช้เป็นไม้ประดับสวนขวด สวนกระจก และตู้ไม้น้ำ มีทั้งที่มีฟอร์มน้ำและฟอร์มบก ถูกจัดสถานะใกล้สูญพันธุ์อย่างยิ่ง (Critically Endangered - CR) เนื่องจากการสูญเสียแหล่งที่อยู่ และการใช้สารกำจัดวัชพืช  

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4. บาสยาม Nymphoides thailandica Suwanph. 

บัวบาที่มีขนาดเล็ก พบในแหล่งน้ำจืดตื้นๆ และในนาข้าว บริเวณ จ. ปราจีนบุรี กระบี่ และยะลา โดยตั้งชื่อตามประเทศไทย พืชชนิดนี้มีศักยภาพในการนำไปใช้เป็นไม้ประดับสวนขวด สวนกระจก และตู้ไม้น้ำ มีทั้งที่มีฟอร์มน้ำและฟอร์มบก ถูกจัดสถานะใกล้สูญพันธุ์อย่างยิ่ง (Critically Endangered - CR) เนื่องจากการสูญเสียแหล่งที่อยู่ และการใช้สารกำจัดวัชพืช  

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5. ดาวรดา Nymphoides thungyaiense Suwanph & Noppornch. 

เป็นบัวบาที่มีขนาดค่อนข้างใหญ่ พบในแหล่งน้ำจืดตื้นๆ บริเวณ จ. ตาก โดยตั้งชื่อตามแหล่งที่พบ ถูกจัดสถานะใกล้สูญพันธุ์อย่างยิ่ง (Critically Endangered - CR) เนื่องจากพบประชากรเพียงแหล่งเดียว  

[Herpetology • 2026] Boulenophrys dongli & B. raoping • Survival in Fragmented Landscapes: Two New Boulenophrys Species (Anura: Megophryidae) from the coastal mountains of eastern Guangdong, China

Boulenophrys raoping 

Wang, Zhan, Xiao, Tan, Chen, Li, Lin, Lyu & Zeng, 2026

Raoping horned toad | 饶平角蟾  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/vz.76.e195550 

Abstract

Two new species, Boulenophrys dongli sp. nov. and Boulenophrys raoping sp. nov., are described from the coastal mountains of Raoping County, Chaozhou City, eastern Guangdong, China, based on morphological and molecular evidence. Currently, these two new species are known only from low-altitude mountainous areas (below 500 m a.s.l.), where they inhabit fragmented patches of secondary forest interspersed with bamboo plantations. Given their extremely limited distribution, ongoing habitat loss, and isolated populations, we recommend listing these two new species as Critically Endangered (CR) in accordance with IUCN Red List criteria B1ab(i,ii,iii)c(i,ii)+B2ab(i,ii,iii)c(i,ii). Continued research is critical to fill existing knowledge gaps and to guide coordinated conservation efforts aimed at protecting these unique amphibians within the critical montane refugia of eastern Guangdong.

Keywords: Conservation, highly threatened, horned toads, morphology, mountain refugia, phylogeny

Life aspect of the holotype (GEP a514) of Boulenophrys dongli sp. nov.:
 A dorsolateral view, B dorsal view, C ventral view, D ventral view of hand, E ventral view of foot.

 

Boulenophrys dongli sp. nov. 

Dongli horned toad (in English) 

dōng lǐ jiǎo chán (东里角蟾 in Chinese)

 

Etymology. The specific epithet dongli is derived from the ancient name “东里 (dōng lǐ)” of the region where the new species is distributed, meaning the eastern boundary of Guangdong, indicating the distribution area of the new species.

Diagnosis. (1) Small size (SVL 30.3–35.6 mm in six adult males); (2) snout rounded in dorsal view, canthus rostralis well developed, tongue not notched distally; (3) tympanum visible, tympanic margin indistinct, temporal region bearing conical spines except tympanum; (4) vomerine ridges and vomerine teeth present; (5) dorsal skin rough and highly granular, discontinuous X-shaped or V-shaped ridge on center of dorsum, dorsolateral ridges absent, sparse large tubercles on flanks, dorsal limbs with tubercles bearing conical spines, sparse rounded tubercles on belly, dense tubercles ...

Life aspect of Boulenophrys raoping sp. nov.
the holotype (GEP a519): A1 dorsolateral view, A2 dorsal view, A3 ventral view, A4 ventral view of hand, A5 ventral view of foot;
female paratype (GEP a523): B1 dorsolateral view, B2 dorsal view, B3 ventral view, B4 ventral view of hand, B5 ventral view of foot.

Boulenophrys raoping sp. nov. 

Raoping horned toad (in English) 

 ráo píng jiǎo chán (饶平角蟾 in Chinese)

Etymology. The specific epithet raoping is derived from its type locality, Raoping County. The name “Raoping (饶平)” combines the characters “饶” (ráo), meaning “rich” or “abundant,” symbolizing prosperous harvests and natural resources, and “平” (píng), meaning “peace” or “stability,” reflecting aspirations for social harmony. Together, they convey the traditional Chinese ideal of material prosperity and enduring peace.

Diagnosis. (1) Small size (SVL 34.1–36.6 mm in four adult males, 39.2–41.8 mm in three adult females); (2) snout rounded in dorsal view, canthus rostralis well developed, tongue not notched distally; (3) tympanum distinct, tympanic margin distinct and raised, temporal region bearing conical spines except tympanum; (4) vomerine ridges present, vomerine teeth absent; (5) dorsal skin rough and highly granular, discontinuous X-shaped or V-shaped ridge on center of dorsum, dorsolateral ridges absent, sparse large tubercles on flanks, dorsal limbs with tubercles bearing conical spines, dense rounded tubercles on belly, dense tubercles bearing conical spines on ...

 Jian Wang, Bin-Bin Zhan, Wei-Wen Xiao, Lin Tan, Hong-Hui Chen, Yuan-Hang Li, Shi-Shi Lin, Zhi-Tong Lyu and Zhao-Chi Zeng. 2026. Survival in Fragmented Landscapes: Two New Boulenophrys Species (Anura: Megophryidae) from the coastal mountains of eastern Guangdong, China. Vertebrate Zoology. 76: 381-399.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/vz.76.e195550 [02-07-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Allium aralii (Amaryllidaceae) • A New Species of Allium sect. Codonoprasum from from Southeastern Anatolia (Türkiye) based on Morphological Characters and Phylogenetic Evidence

 

Allium aralii Balos Köse& Sonay,

in Balos, Köse, Sonay et Tunç. 2026. 

Kaplandağı soğanı  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3390/plants15101574  

 instagram.com/marufbalos

 

Abstract

Allium aralii Balos, Köse Sonay sp. nov. (Amaryllidaceae, sect. Codonoprasum) is described as a new species from southeastern Anatolia, Türkiye. The species is morphologically distinguished from its closest relatives—A. euphraticum, A. turcicum subsp. turcicum, A. turcicum subsp. fusciflorum, and A. yilandaghense—by a unique combination of characters: blackish outer bulb tunics, semi-cylindrical solid leaves exceeding the inflorescence, an extremely long persistent two-valved spathe (4.5–28.0 cm), a lax hemispherical inflorescence (3–4 cm diam., 10–70 flowers), a goblet-shaped perigon with dentate inner tepals, exserted bicolored stamens (white at base and apex, purple in the middle), a reticulate-foveate ovary, and verrucate seed ornamentation with undulate anticlinal walls. Seed micromorphology examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) further supports species delimitation. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear ITS and chloroplast matK sequences place A. aralii within a well-supported clade containing A. turcicum and allied species, corresponding to the eastern Mediterranean lineage of sect. Codonoprasum. ITS genetic distances between A. aralii and its morphologically closest relatives range 0.0632, falling within the typical interspecific range for Allium. The species is known from a single locality in Bozova district (Şanlıurfa) with fewer than 100 mature individuals and is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) according to IUCN criteria. This discovery highlights southeastern Anatolia as an underexplored center of Allium diversification and underscores the importance of integrative taxonomy for species delimitation within this taxonomically complex group.

Keywords: Allium; endemic; sect. Codonoprasum; morphology; taxonomy; phylogeny; seed micromorphology

 Habit and reproductive morphology of Allium aralii.
 (A) With oak trees on Mount Kaplandağı. (B,C) Inflorescences showing lax hemispherical structure. (D) Detail of perigon and pedicel, illustrating tepal arrangement and coloration.

Additional views of Allium aralii.
(A–C) Variation in inflorescence morphology, highlighting density and flower arrangement. (D) Whole plant habit, showing relative proportions of leaves, scape, and inflorescence.

 Allium aralii (From holotype M. Balos 5616).
(A) Habit. (B) Bulb. (C,D) Leaf sheathing and stem. (E) Leaf cross-section. (F,G) Perigon. (H) Close-up view of the outer tepal. (I) Inner surface of open perigon and filament. (J) Outer–inner–outer tepal. (K) Inner surface of open perigon. (L) Outer surface of open perigon. (M) Anther (N) Ovary. (O) Ovary cross-section (P) Scape cross-section. (Q) Capsule. (R) Seed.

Allium aralii Balos, Köse Sonay sp. nov. 

 

Diagnosis: Allium aralii belongs to Allium sect. Codonoprasum and is morphologically distinguished from its closely related species—A. euphraticum, A. turcicum subsp. turcicum, and A. turcicum subsp. fusciflorum—by the following combination of characters: outer bulb tunics blackish (vs. brownish in A. euphraticum and A. turcicum subsp. turcicum, brownish-black in A. turcicum subsp. fusciflorum); bulbs 1.0–1.5 × 0.8–1.0 cm (vs. 1–2 cm in A. euphraticum, 1–2 cm in A. turcicum subsp. turcicum, 1–2 cm in A. turcicum subsp. fusciflorum); scape slender, 16–30 cm long (vs. 14–44 cm in A. euphraticum, 10–40 cm in A. turcicum subsp. turcicum and subsp. fusciflorum); leaves semi-cylindrical, solid, exceeding the inflorescence, 6.5–21.0 × 0.08–0.1 cm (vs. filiform, hollow, exceeding ...

Etymology: The species name ‘aralii’ was given in honor of the extraordinary academic achievements of the second author’s son, Aral Köse. Aral is an exceptional student who, after pursuing a dual degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Mathematics at Boğaziçi University, has been awarded a full scholarship for a PhD program at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB).

Turkish common name of the new species: Allium is called “Soğan” in Turkish. The author proposes “Kaplandağı soğanı” as a vernacular name for A. aralii according to the guidelines of Menemen et al. [2016].

 Mehmet Maruf Balos,Yavuz Bülent Köse,Veysel Sonay and Fatmanur Tunç. 2026. Allium aralii (Amaryllidaceae, sect. Codonoprasum), A New Species from Southeastern Anatolia (Türkiye) Based on Morphological Characters and Phylogenetic Evidence. Plants. 15(10), 1574; DOI: doi.org/10.3390/plants15101574 [21 May 2026]

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[Botany • 2026] Linaria almadensis (Plantaginaceae: Antirrhineae) • A highly threatened New Toadflax endemic to the Tagus mouth cliffs, opposite Lisbon (Portugal)

Linaria almadensis Farminhão,

in Farminhão, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1080/23818107.2025.2608732

 

ABSTRACT

A new species of Linaria subsect. Supinae is described from the Tagus mouth cliffs (TMC), located about 2 km south of Lisbon, in the municipality of Almada. The taxonomic treatment, including a key to morphologically allied species, is followed by a report on the vegetation of the TMC. Linaria almadensis, historically identified as L. glaucophylla, L. marginata, L. tristis, L. polygalifolia, L. aeruginea, and L. supina, is endemic to these coastal cliffs, formed during the Pleistocene, where it grows on sandy walls in the vicinity of carbonate rocks. It is associated with a chasmo-chomophytic community including some Portuguese endemics (Silene longicilia) or near-endemics (i.e. Antirrhinum linkianum, Calendula suffruticosa subsp. lusitanica), requiring legal protection under Annex I to the Habitats Directive. Linaria almadensis is most similar to L. tristis subsp. marginata, and L. supina s.l. from which it differs by the narrowly elliptic-oblong to elliptic-oblanceolate leaves, with an obtuse-apiculate apex, and the wider corolla tube in lateral section . Bees of the genus Anthophora are here reported as pollinators of L. almadensis, and evolutionary hypotheses for its origin are discussed. Due to its restricted distribution and pressing threats to its habitat, including invasive species and infrastructural encroachment, L. almadensis is preliminarily red-listed as Critically Endangered. The existence of a narrow endemic on the brink of extinction, one priority habitat at the European level, and a rich geological heritage in the TMC, call for the urgent definition of a new protected area in one of the most densely inhabited areas of Europe.

KEYWORDS: Iberian Peninsula, melittophily, periurban biodiversity, plant conservation, plant taxonomy, rupicolous vegetation, seed morphology, Tropaeolum majus

 Linaria almadensis in situ.
 (A) Habit. (B) Detail of inflorescence in early anthesis; spurs pale yellow. (C) Plant in late anthesis and fruit. (D) Detail of inflorescences in early anthesis; spurs tinged in violet. Taken at Cristo-Rei, 31 March 2021 (A, B, D) and Banática (C), 22 April 2025. Image credits: João Farminhão.

Linaria almadensis Farminhão sp. nov.

Overview of Linaria almadensis.
 A. Habit. B. Branched fertile stem in flower and fruit. C. Fertile stem apex with inflorescence, detail. D. Fertile stem leaf, adaxial surface. E. Fertile stem leaf, abaxial surface. F. Inflorescence axis, detail of indumentum. G. Bract. H. Calyx indumentum, detail. I. Flower, frontal view. J. Flower, lateral view. K. Capsule, pedicel, and axis. L. Capsule, detail of apex. M. Seed, view of convex face. N. Seed, transversal section.

A, G drawn from Arsénio s.n. (LISI053150); 

B – E, H, M, N from Farminhão 395 (COI00112046); F, I – L from Farminhão 371 (COI00112045).

 

João Farminhão. 2026. Linaria almadensis (Plantaginaceae, Antirrhineae): A highly threatened New Toadflax endemic to the Tagus mouth cliffs, opposite Lisbon (Portugal). Botany Letters. 173(2); 251-267. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/23818107.2025.2608732 [19 Jan 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 • 2026] Oreocharis sihuiensis (Gesneriaceae) • A critically endangered New Species from Guangdong Province, China

 

Oreocharis sihuiensis  L.B.Ji & F.Wen, 

in  Ji, Wen, Jin, Xu, Li et Tang. 2026. 

四会瑶山苣苔  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.190710 

Abstract

Oreocharis sihuiensis sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) is described from Guangdong Province, China. Morphologically, the flower shape of this new species is similar to that of O. dayaoshanioides, but it can be distinguished by its leaf blade being adaxially densely pubescent, with hairs 0.2–0.5 mm long (vs. adaxially sparsely villous to villous, with hairs longer than 1 mm), lobes of the corolla upper lip subrounded and apex rounded (vs. broadly ovate to orbicular-ovate and apex acute), 3 staminodes (vs. absent or 2), disc margin cleft (vs. subentire), shorter filaments (ca. 6.0 mm long vs. 8.0–12.0 mm long), and shorter capsules (ca. 1.0 cm long vs. ca. 2.0 cm long). Considering its scarce number of individuals, and the presence of severe human disturbance, we preliminarily assess the new species as ‘Critically Endangered’ (CR) according to IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Key words: Medicinal plant, morphology, new taxon, Oreocharis cotinifolia, Oreocharis dayaoshanioides, taxonomy

Oreocharis sihuiensis sp. nov.
A. Habit; B, C. Flowering individuals; D. Leaves, adaxial (left), abaxial (right), and their partially magnified views (a, b. Respectively, showing indumentum); E. Inflorescence; F, G. Flowers, front and lateral view, respectively; H. Longitudinal section of corolla, lower lip (left), upper lip (right) and its partially magnified view (a. Showing indumentum and staminodes); I. Calyx lobes; J. Disc and Pistil; K. Capsules.

Oreocharis sihuiensis sp. nov.
A. Habit; B. Front view of a flower; C. Lateral view of a flower; D. Longitudinal section of corolla; E. Disc and Pistil; F. Capsules; G. Leaf, abaxial surface.

Oreocharis sihuiensis L.B.Ji & F.Wen, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. A species similar to Oreocharis dayaoshanioides Yan Liu & W.B.Xu (in Liu et al. 2012), but can be distinguished from the latter by the adaxial leaf blade being densely pubescent with hairs 0.2–0.5 mm long (vs. sparsely to densely villous, hairs longer than 1 mm), lobes of the corolla upper lip subrounded with a rounded apex (vs. broadly ovate to orbicular-ovate with an acute apex), presence of 3 staminodes (vs. absent or 2), disc margin cleft (vs. subentire), filaments shorter, less than ca. 6.0 mm long (vs. 8.0–12.0 mm), and capsules ca. 1.0 cm long (vs. ca. 2.0 cm). (Table 1, together with the type species of Dayaoshania, now namely Oreocharis cotinifolia).

Etymology. Specific epithet is derived from the type locality, Sihui City.

Vernacular name. Sì Huì Yáo Shān Jù Tái (Chinese pronunciation); 

四会瑶山苣苔 (Chinese name).

Ling-Bo Ji, Fang Wen, Xiu-Hui Jin, Yi-Da Xu, Bo-Heng Li and Bo Tang. 2026. Oreocharis sihuiensis (Gesneriaceae), A critically endangered New Species from Guangdong Province, China. PhytoKeys. 276: 175-182. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.190710 [12 Jun 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Telipogon vasqueznunezii (Orchidaceae: Oncidiinae) • A New Species for Northern Peru

 

Telipogon vasqueznunezii C.Martel, Chamaya & Iberico,
  

in Martel, Chamaya Gonzáles, Ibérico Vela, Edquén, Rodríguez et Iturralde. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.15517/j4h3bb59 

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Abstract

Telipogon is a highly diverse genus in the Andes, yet it remains incompletely documented in northern Peru. Telipogon vasqueznunezii is morphologically similar to T. hystrix but differs in the oblong-ligulate lip, the two small lobes at the lip base, the absence of a protrusion on the lip, and the tuft of acicular setae on the columnar appendix. A detailed description, illustrations, a distribution map, and a conservation assessment are provided here.

Keywords: Andes, miniature Telipogon, montane forest relic, Telipogon embreei, Telipogon hystrix

Telipogon vasqueznunezii.
 A. Habit. B. Portion of inflorescence with flowers. C. Flower, lateral view. D. Flower, ¾ view. E. Details of setae with stellate apices. F. Anther cap with pollinarium and tuft of setae on the columnar appendix, ventral view. G. Pollinarium, ventral view.

Based on J.Chamaya 106 (holotype CPUN). Drawn by Juan F. Montoya Quino.

Telipogon vasqueznunezii.
 A. Habit. B. Portion of inflorescence with flowers. C. Leaves. D. Bract of the inflorescence. E. Flower bud. F. Flower, frontal view. G. Flower, lateral view. H. Dissected flower. I. Details of the lip trichomes. J. Ovary and column, lateral view. K. Column, frontal view. L. Column, ventral view. M. Anther cap, frontal and dorsal views. N. Pollinarium.

Based on W. Tafur 131 (UNACH). Plate prepared by Jose D. Edquén.

Telipogon vasqueznunezii.
 A. Plant in situ. B. Vegetative plant. C. Two plants with sub-erect inflorescences. D. The same individual shown in the background in C, with the inflorescence becoming pendant during further development.

Photos by James A. Chamaya G.

Comparison of flowers of Telipogon vasqueznunezii and T. hystrix. 
A. Flower of Telipogon vasqueznunezii, ¾ view. B. Flower of T. vasqueznunezii , lateral view.
C. Flower of T. hystrix, ¾ view. D. Flower of T. hystrix, lateral view.

Photos by James A. Chamaya G. (A–B) and Gabriel Iturralde (C–D).

Telipogon vasqueznunezii C.Martel, Chamaya & Iberico, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Telipogon vasqueznunezii is most similar to Telipogon hystrix (Dodson) N.H.Williams & Dressler but is distinguished by the larger flowers (9–11 × 8–13 mm vs. 5 × 5 mm), the obovate to sub-oblong petals (vs. narrowly ovate), the oblong-ligulate lip (vs. elliptical to oblong), the sub-auriculate lip base with a pair of small lobes (vs. the sagittate base with two long lobes), the absence of a protrusion on the lip (vs. a hump-like protrusion on the lower half), and one tuft of acicular setae on the columnar appendix (vs. one tuft of setae with a stellate apex on the columnar appendix).

Eponymy: The species is named after Dr Leopoldo Pompeyo Vásquez Núñez, a Peruvian botanist and professor at Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruiz Gallo. Professor Vásquez has dedicated his life to better understanding the plant diversity of northern Peru with a focus on potentially useful plants.

Carlos Martel, James Alexander Chamaya Gonzáles, Gustavo Ibérico Vela, José D. Edquén,

William Tafur Rodríguez and Gabriel A. Iturralde. 2026. A New Species of Telipogon (Orchidaceae: Oncidiinae) for Northern Peru. LANKESTERIANA. 26(2): 83–92. DOI: doi.org/10.15517/j4h3bb59 [29 May 2026] 

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