[Botany • 2020] Memecylon nervosum (Melastomataceae) • A New Species from South INDIA

Memecylon nervosum Vadhyar, J.H.F.Benj. & Sujana, 

in Vadhyar, Benjamin et Sujana, 2020. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1017/S0960428620000050

 Researchgate.net/publication/340951524

Abstract
Memecylon nervosum Vadhyar, J.H.F.Benj. & Sujana, a new species of Melastomataceae from the Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary, Western Ghats, India, is described and illustrated. It is compared with the closely allied Memecylon heyneanum Benth. and Memecylon jambosioides Wight.

Keywords: India, Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary, Melastomataceae, Memecylon nervosum

Memecylon nervosum Vadhyar, J.H.F.Benj. & Sujana, sp. nov.
A, Plants in their naturalhabitat; B, leaf (adaxial view); C, leaf (abaxial view); D, inflorescence; E, flowers; F–J, fruit atdifferent stages of development. 

Memecylon nervosum Vadhyar, J.H.F.Benj. & Sujana, sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet alludes to the presence of prominently raised lateral andintramarginal veins on the lower surface of the lamina.

 R. G. Vadhyar, J. H. F. Benjamin and K. A. Sujana. 2020. MEMECYLON NERVOSUM (MELASTOMATACEAE), A New Species from South INDIA. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 77(3); DOI: doi.org/10.1017/S0960428620000050 [27 April 2020]

 Researchgate.net/publication/340951524_MEMECYLON_NERVOSUM_A_NEW_SPECIES_from_SOUTH_INDIA

[Botany • 2026] Gaultheria watsonii (Ericaceae) • A New Species from Sikim Himalaya

 

Gaultheria watsonii D.Maity, A.K.Halder and S.Saha,

in Maity, Halder, Saha, Panda, Jha et Pradhan, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.3606

Abstract

A new species of Gaultheria L. (Ericaceae) from the Sikkim Himalaya, Gaultheria watsonii, is described and illustrated. This species is  morphologically most similar to Gaultheria heteromera in terms of habit, especially in its procumbent branchlets and tetramerous flowers. However, it can be readily distinguished from all other known species of the genus, including Gaultheria heteromera, by its unique combination of morphological characters, namely prostrate habit with procumbent branchlets, adaxially smooth and smaller leaf blades with strongly acute and mucronulate apices, pseudoterminal 2- to 4-flowered racemes, longer rachis, shorter pedicel, 4-merous flowers, and ovary sparsely white hispidulous with conspicuously 8- to 10-lobed discs. Based on its limited geographical distribution and the continuing decline in habitat quality, the conservation status of the new species is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered [CR B2ab(iii)] according to the IUCN Red List criteria.

Keywords: Critically Endangered (CR), Gaultheria series Leucothoides (Airy Shaw) D. J. Middleton, Himalaya, IUCN

Gaultheria watsonii D.Maity, A.K.Halder and S.Saha, sp. nov.
 A, Habit and habitat; B, inflorescence; C, flower.

Photographs: A. K. Halder.

Gaultheria watsonii D.Maity, A.K.Halder and S.Saha, sp. nov.

The new species is most similar to Gaultheria heteromera, from which it differs by having smaller leaf blades (4–10 × 3–5 mm vs 8–25(–30) × 5–14 mm), strongly acute leaf apex (vs obtuse), smaller petioles (0.5–0.75 mm vs 1–3 mm), pseudoterminal racemes (vs pseudoterminal and axillary), longer rachis (5–15 mm vs 3–6(–10) mm), shorter pedicel (1–1.75 mm vs 3–6 mm), bract and bracteoles with margins densely ciliolate (vs eciliolate), 8 stamens (vs 8 or 9), and ovary with conspicuous shallowly lobed disc (vs disc absent). In Gaultheria heteromera the veins on the adaxial surface of leaves are distinctly impressed, forming prominent reticulations, whereas in the new species although sometimes the midvein is slightly depressed adaxially, the secondary and tertiary veins are not impressed and thus the upper surface appears smooth. Moreover, in Gaultheria watsonii the ovary is sparsely white-hispidulous, whereas in G. heteromera the ovary is densely hispidulous.

D. Maity, A. K. Halder, S. Saha, S. Panda, B. K. Jha and D. K. Pradhan. 2026. GAULTHERIA WATSONII (ERICACEAE): A New Species from Sikim HIMALAYA. EDINBURGH JOURNAL OF BOTANY. 83, 3606. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.3606 [2026-08-24]

[Fungi • 2026] Agrocybe himalayensis (Strophariaceae) • A New Species from Indian Himalaya

 

Agrocybe himalayensis Choudhary, Uniyal & Y.P.Sharma,

in Choudhary, Sharma et Uniyal, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.3599

Abstract

A new species, Agrocybe himalayensis (Strophariaceae), from Uttarakhand Himalaya, India, is described based on macro- and micro-morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses. This species is characterised by its pale-orange to yellow-brown pileus with distinct umbo, wavy cream margin, crowded pale-salmon to fleshy brown lamellae (often anastomosing), and ellipsoid basidiospores 8.7–11.4 × 6.6–7.8 μm. A phylogenetic tree, line drawings and photographs are provided, as is a table of morphological characters of the new and closely related species. 

Keywords: nrITS, Phylogeny, Strophariaceae, Uttarakhand

Macro- and micromorphological images of Agrocybe himalayensis Choudhary, Uniyal & Y.P.Sharma, sp. nov.
A and B, Fresh basidiomata in the field and basecamp; C, basidiospores; D, basidia; E–G, pleurocystidia; H, cheilocystidia; I, pileocystidia.

Scale bars: A, 10 mm; C–I, 10 μm. All images of the holotype, S. Choudhary, P. Uniyal & Y.P. Sharma 2139, taken by Priyanka Uniyal and Shikha Choudhary.

Agrocybe himalayensis Choudhary, Uniyal & Y.P.Sharma, sp. nov.

Agrocybe himalayensis differs from its closely allied species A.putaminum by its large basidiomata (80mm vs 60mm in A.putaminum), velvety to smooth pale-orange to yellow-brown pileus (vs glabrous, wrinkled, yellow brown), distinct umbo (vs slight umbo), margin not clearly demarcated, wavy, cream (vs inflexed to deflexed – sometimes wrinkled and reflexed, and light brown). It also differs in its crowded, pale-salmon to fleshy brown lamellae often anastomosing (vs well spaced, pale yellow decurrent and toothed), stipe without any velar remnants (vs strongly fibrillose to dark-brown granulose-flocculose), presence of large basidiospores 8.7–11.4 × 6.6–7.8 μm (vs 11.7–13.8 × 7.5–8.5 μm) and with pleurocystidia 26–45.5 × 11.4–18 μm (vs 38.9–56.9 × 13–27 μm) and cheilocystidia 24.5–32.6 × 7.9–14.3 μm (vs 44–63 × 11–14 μm).

S. Choudhary, Y. P. Sharma, P. Uniyal. 2026. AGROCYBE HIMALAYENSIS (STROPHARIACEAE), A NEW SPECIES from INDIAN HIMALAYA. EDINBURGH JOURNAL OF BOTANY. 83, 3599. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.3599 [2026-08-25]

[Botany • 2026] Pterolepis arenacea (Melastomataceae: Melastomateae) • A New Species from the Brazilian Cerrado

Pterolepis arenacea D.Nunes & P.J.F.Guim.,

 in Silva, Figueira, Schindler, Simon et Guimarães, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2140

Abstract

Pterolepis arenacea is described and illustrated as a new species to the Estação Ecológica Serra Geral do Tocantins and its  surroundings, in the Brazilian states of Bahia and Tocantins. This species is restricted to microhabitats of sandstone outcrops surrounded by savanna vegetation. Pterolepis arenacea is the first known species of the genus exhibiting a dorsal appendage on the stamens. Morphologically, Pterolepis arenacea is most similar to species of the P. polygonoides complex, composed of P. polygonoides, P. saturejiformis and P. trimera. Furthermore, Pterolepis arenacea shares vegetative similarities with the  haplostemonous species P. haplostemona and P. xaxa. Detailed line drawings, field photographs, and scanning electron microscopy images are provided. The conservation status of Pterolepis arenacea is preliminarily assessed as Data Deficient (DD) under the IUCN criteria.

Keywords: Estação Ecológica Serra Geral do Tocantins, Jalapão, Matopiba, Pterolepis polygonoides, sandstone outcrops

 Field images of  Pterolepis arenacea D.Nunes & P.J.F.Guim., sp. nov.
A, Individuals growing in sandstone outcrop cavities; B, detail of a stem, showing the grey-green abaxial surface leaf blades; C, individuals with both flowers and fruits; D, flowering individual; E and F, details of the flowers and floral bud.

Photographs by M. Figueira (A, C and D; all from M. Figueira et al. 1773) and M. F. Simon (B, E and F; all from R.R. Souza et al. 269).

 Pterolepis arenacea D.Nunes & P.J.F.Guim., sp. nov.
 A, Flowering branch; B, a small branched specimen; C, branch node; D, abaxial surface of the leaf blade; D′, detail of the abaxial surface of the leaf blade base; E, adaxial surface of the leaf blade; E′, detail of the adaxial surface of the leaf blade base; F, front view of the flower, exposing the inner surfaces of the petals and the androecium; G, lateral view of the flower, showing the outer surfaces of the hypanthium and perianth; H, inner surface of the petal, highlighting the venation; I–I′′, antesepalous stamens (I, lateral view of the stamen; I′, front view of the stamen; I′′, detail of the dorsal and ventral appendages); J, gynoecium; K, capsule covered by the hypanthium and persistent sepals; L, exposed capsule; M, open capsule exposing persistent placenta.

Drawn by Carla de Lima from R.R. Souza et al. 269 (A and C–M) and M. Figueira et al. 1773 (B).

 Distribution and habitat of  Pterolepis arenacea D.Nunes & P.J.F.Guim., sp. nov. 
A, Distribution map for Pterolepis arenacea (yellow triangles) (Brazilian states: BA, Bahia; MA, Maranhão; TO, Tocantins). B, Aerial view of the vegetation in the Estação Ecológica Serra Geral do Tocantins (EESGT), showing a predominance of savannas and grasslands interspersed with rocky outcrops. C and D, Habitat where Pterolepis arenacea was found in the municipality of Formosa do Rio Preto, Bahia.

Photographs: Sérgio E. Noronha (B) and M. Figueira (C and D).

D. N. Silva, M. Figueira, B. Schindler, M. F. Simon and P. J. F. Guimarães. 2026. PTEROLEPIS ARENACEA (MELASTOMATACEAE: Melastomateae), A New Species from the Brazilian Cerrado.  Edinburgh Journal of Botany. (83); 1-14 pp. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2140 [2026-07-13]

 Researchgate.net/publication/409266877_PTEROLEPIS_ARENACEA_A_NEW_SPECIES_FROM_THE_BRAZILIAN_CERRADO

[Botany • 2026] Adenoscidium omanensis (Apiaceae) • A New Species from the northern mountains of Oman

 Adenoscidium omanensis A.Al Farsi, 

in Farsi, 2026. 

  DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.3605

Abstract

Adenosciadium omanensis, a species new to science, is described from the foothills of the northern mountains of Oman. It is closely related to Adenosciadium arabicum but differs in having a reniform leaflet with finely serrate margin, a compact inflorescence, lanceolate bracts and bracteoles with acute tip, a cylindrical fruit (schizocarp) with narrow commissure, oblong-oval terete mericarps with an exocarp covered with long forked hairs, and an emarginate endocarp on the commissural side. Adenosciadium omanensis is illustrated by photographs in its natural habitat. In addition, a comparative morphological analysis is presented that distinguishes it from Adenosciadium arabicum, the single species known in the genus, from southern Oman and Yemen. A distribution map for the two species in Oman is provided.

Keywords: Adenosciadium, Apiaceae, Arabian Peninsula, Eastern Hajar Mountains, Endemic, New species, Northern Oman, Taxonomy

Field photographs of Adenoscidium omanensis A.Al Farsi, sp. nov.
 A, Habitat; B, growth habit; C, leaf shape; D, flowers; E, inflorescence; F, mature mericarps. All photographs taken by A. Al Farsi: B–D, holotype (A. Al Farsi 885); E–F, A. Al Farsi 886.

Adenosciadium omanensis A.Al Farsi, sp. nov.

Adenosciadium omanensis is closely related to A. arabicum in having a compound umbellate inflorescence, a fruit (schizocarp) with two adjoining mericarps, exocarp with five primary ribs, and single white hairs with forked end covering the surface of the mericarps. However, Adenosciadium omanensis is distinguished from A. arabicum by its perennial polycarpic habit (vs annual), tomentose indumentum (vs pubescent), ...

A. A. Al Farsi. 2026. Adenosciadium omanensis (APIACEAE), A New Species from the northern mountains of Oman. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 83; 1-11

  DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.3605 [2026-06-10]

[Botany • 2026] Gentiana macneilliana (Gentianaceae) • A New Species Sikkim Himalaya (India) based on Morphological and Molecular Data

Gentiana macneilliana A.K.Halder & D.Maity, 

in Halder, Saha, Dwivedi, Banerjee, Jha, Pradhan, Maity et Pandey, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2089

Abstract

Gentiana macneilliana (Gentianaceae), a new species from North Sikkim, in the Eastern Himalayan region of India, is described, illustrated and discussed. It is morphologically similar to Gentiana lacinulata T.N.Ho of Gentiana sect. Chondrophyllae Bunge but differs markedly in having acute and usually mucronate leaf apex, ovate corolla lobes with acuminate apex, much longer plicae (1.5–2.6 mm), which are more than half as long as corolla lobes, and longer pedicel (up to 8 mm). This new species also resembles Gentiana muscicola C.Marquand (Gentiana sect. Chondrophyllae) but can easily be differentiated by its unique corolla lobe, shorter petiole, narrowly based leaf lamina, longer pedicel and shorter style. The affinity of the new species with Gentiana grata Harry Sm., a member of the same section, is also highlighted. A taxonomic description, images and illustrations of the new taxon are provided, along with a discussion of closely related taxa.

Keywords: Gentiana sect. Chondrophyllae, Eastern Himalaya, ITS, IUCN, trnL-F, new species

Gentiana macneilliana A.K.Halder & D.Maity, sp. nov.
A, Habitat; B and C, habit; D, open flower

Photographs: A. K. Halder (A–D) 

Gentiana macneilliana A.K.Halder & D.Maity, sp. nov.

Gentiana macneilliana is morphologically most similar to Gentiana lacinulata but differs from that species by its short petiole, 0.5–1.5 mm long (vs up to 3 mm); acute and usually mucronate leaf apex (vs obtuse leaf apex); narrowly revolute leaf margin (vs flat leaf margin); longer pedicel, up to 8 mm long (vs up to 3 mm long); ovate corolla lobes with acuminate apex (vs suborbicular with obtuse-rounded or rounded apex); much longer plicae, 1.5–2.6 mm long (vs 0.7–1 mm); and plicae more than 1/2 as long as corolla lobes (vs less than 1/3 as long as corolla lobes). It also resembles Gentiana muscicola but can be differentiated from that species by its unique ovate, acuminate corolla lobes with erose margin and distinctly contracted base (vs ovate–lanceolate or ovate–triangular, obtuse or subacute lobes with entire margin and widened base); short petiole, 0.5–1.5 mm long (vs up to 2.5 mm); narrowed leaf bases (vs rounded to cordate leaf bases); long pedicel, up to 8 mm (vs up to 3.1 mm); and short style, 1.5–1.9 mm (vs 3–4 mm). 

Etymology. The specific epithet ‘macneilliana’ is given in honour of Dr John McNeill, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (E), the legendary taxonomist and nomenclature specialist, who has given immense support with the nomenclature of Indian Gentiana.

A.K. Halder, S. Saha, M. D. Dwivedi, A. Banerjee, B. K. Jha, D. K. Pradhan, D. Maity and A. K. Pandey. 2026. Gentiana macneilliana (GENTIANACEAE), A New Species Sikkim Himalaya (India) based on Morphological and Molecular Data. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 83; 1-21. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2089 [2026-05-18]

[Botany • 2026] Gaultheria rostrata (Ericaceae) • A New Species endemic to Mindanao Island, Philippines

 

Gaultheria rostrata M.N.Tamayo, P.W.Fritsch & Medecilo,  

in Tamayo, Lagunday, Amoroso, Tandang, Fritsch et Medecilo-Guiang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2104 

Abstract

Gaultheria rostrata, a new species of wintergreen endemic to Mindanao Island, Philippines, is here described and illustrated. It resembles Gaultheria bartolomei, endemic to Luzon Island, but differs by having a terrestrial habit, shorter petioles, longer pedicels, white or pale-pink corollas, coiled corolla lobes, longer anther tubules, and a longer style. The flowers of Gaultheria rostrata are unique among Asian species of Gaultheria on account of their coiled corolla lobes exposing the anthers and style at anthesis. This discovery raises the number of Gaultheria species in the Philippines to 16.

Keywords: Biodiversity, endemic, Gaultheria sect. Diplycosia, Southern Philippines, Taxonomy

Gaultheria rostrata M.N.Tamayo, P.W.Fritsch & Medecilo, sp. nov.
A, Habit in situ; B, leafy branchlets; C, leaf, abaxial surface; D, leaf, adaxial surface; E and F, flowering branchlets; G, flower bud; H, I and J, upper pedicel, bracteoles and flower; K, stamens, ventral view.

Photographs: A–E and H, M. M. Medecilo-Guiang from M.M.M.-G. 1030; F, G, I and J, D.N. Tandang; K, M. N. Tamayo from M.M.M.-G. 1030.

Gaultheria rostrata M.N.Tamayo, P.W.Fritsch & Medecilo, sp. nov.

This species resembles the Philippine endemic Gaultheria bartolomei (Ferreras & Argent) Kron & P.W.Fritsch but differs by having a terrestrial habit (vs epiphytic), shorter petioles (4–4.5 mm vs 5–7 mm), longer pedicels (20–35 mm vs 20–25 mm), white or pale-pink corollas (vs deep pink), corolla lobes coiled (vs reflexed), longer anther tubules (4–4.5 mm vs c.1 mm), and a longer style (10–11 mm vs c.8 mm).

Etymology. The specific epithet rostrata alludes to the morphological resemblance of the flowers of the new species to avian beaks or proboscides.

M. N. Tamayo, N. E. Lagunday, V. B. Amoroso, D. N. Tandang, P. W. Fritsch and M. M. Medecilo-Guiang. 2026. GAULTHERIA ROSTRATA (sect. Diplycosia, ERICACEAE), A New Wintergreen Species endemic to Mindanao Island, Philippines. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 83; DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2104 [2026-05-05]

[Botany • 2021] Dionysia jamzadiae (Primulaceae) • A New Species from the Fars Province of Iran

Dionysia jamzadiae Lidén, M.Irvine, Alvén & Mehregan, 

in Lidén, Irvine, Alvén et Mehregan, 2021. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/EJB.2021.396

ABSTRACT

Dionysia jamzadiae Lidén, M.Irvine, Alvén & Mehregan, from the east Zagros Mountains, Fars, Iran, is described as new to science. It belongs in section Dionysiopsis and is similar to D. oreodoxa Bornm. but differs in, for example, its sparsely glandular hairy or almost glabrous corolla with emarginated lobes (densely non-glandular pubescent with entire lobes in D. oreodoxa). Dionysia jamzadiae is known from two places and is quite abundant at the type locality.

Keywords: New species, Fars, Iran, Dionysia

Dionysia jamzadiae Lidén, M.Irvine, Alvén & Mehregan, sp. nov.
Brevistylous (A) and longistylous (B) plants in the type locality.

 Photograph: M. Lidén.

 

Dionysia jamzadiae Lidén, M.Irvine, Alvén & Mehregan, sp. nov.

Differs from Dionysia oreodoxa Bornm., to which it is most similar, in its sparsely glandular hairy or almost glabrous corolla with emarginate lobes (versus densely non-glandular pubescent with entire lobes).

 

 

M. Lidén, M. Irvine, A. Alvén and I. Mehregan. 2021. Dionysia jamzadiae (Primulaceae), A New Species from the Fars Province of Iran. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 78; DOI: doi.org/10.24823/EJB.2021.396 [2021-12-02]

Researchgate.net/publication/356756037_DIONYSIA_JAMZADIAE_A_NEW_SPECIES_FROM_THE_FARS_PROVINCE_OF_IRAN

[Botany • 2026] Begonia matillanoae (Begoniaceae, sect. Baryandra) • A New Species from Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape, Palawan Island, Philippines

  

Begonia matillanoae Y.P.Ang & Langbao,  

in Ang, Marcos-Langbao, Camangeg, Jose, Diego et Tamayo, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2102

Abstract

A new species, Begonia matillanoae, is here described and illustrated from Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape, Palawan Island, Philippines. It closely resembles Begonia cabanillasii but is distinct in having an ovate leaf with irregularly lobed margin, an acute leaf apex, and a 5-tepalled pistillate flower with the larger wing flat to shallowly cucullate. Begonia matillanoae is the latest addition to the Palawan begonias bearing a conspicuously 5-winged ovary. Based on IUCN guidelines, we here propose a  Critically Endangered (CR) conservation designation for this species. A revised key to Palawan Begonia sect. Baryandra bearing five or six conspicuous ovary wings is also provided.

Keywords: Granite, Protected area, Sunda, Taxonomy, Threatened species

Begonia matillanoae Y.P.Ang & Langbao, sp. nov.
 A, Habitat and habit; B, rhizome, showing details of stipules and base of petioles; C, petiole and leaf base attachment; D, bracts and unopened flowers; E and F, leaf adaxial and abaxial surface, respectively; G, inflorescence; H and I, staminate flower (face and side views, respectively); J and K, pistillate flower (face and side views, respectively); L, immature ovary; M, ovary (cross sections).

All photographs from ACAP57, taken by Y. P. Ang.

 Begonia matillanoae Y.P.Ang & Langbao, sp. nov.

Begonia matillanoae resembles B. cabanillasii in having white-pilose indumentum on its petioles, leaves and peduncles, a 4-tepalled staminate flower, and a conspicuously 5-winged ovary. However, it differs in having an ovate leaf shape (vs suborbicular) with shallow acutely lobed margin (vs crenate), an acute leaf apex (vs acute, obtuse or rounded), and a 5-tepalled (vs 4-tepalled) pistillate flower with largest wing flat to shallowly cucullate (vs distinctly cucullate). 

Y. P. Ang, A. B. Marcos-Langbao, L. M. Camangeg, E. D. Jose, J. M. L. Diego and M. N. Tamayo. 2026. Begonia matillanoae (BEGONIACEAE), A New Species from Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape, Palawan Island, Philippines. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 83; DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2102 [2026-02-03] 

[Botany • 2026] Elaeocarpus pulneyensis (Elaeocarpaceae) • A New Species from Peninsular India, based on Morphological and Molecular Evidence

Elaeocarpus pulneyensis Gole, N.V.Page, Sardesai, 
  

in Gole, Page et Sardesai, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2092

Abstract

A new species of Elaeocarpus is described from the Kodaikanal region of Pulney Hills, India; it is morphologically allied to E. variabilis in having anther tips without setae or tuft of hairs and 3-locular pyrenes. It differs from the latter in having ovate, light-green sepals, and ellipsoid fruits enclosing ellipsoid pyrenes. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on ITS and trnL–F regions revealed that Elaeocarpus pulneyensis is distinct from E. variabilis and support the novelty of the taxon.

Keywords: endemic, Kodaikanal, Oxalidales, Pulney Hills, Rudraksha

Comparative floral morphology of Elaeocarpus variabilis and E. pulneyensis.
 A–D, Elaeocarpus variabilis: A, flowering branch; B, dorsal view of the raceme; C, ventral view of the raceme; D, close-up of flower.
E–H, Elaeocarpus pulneyensis: E, flowering branch; F, dorsal view of the raceme; G, ventral view of the raceme; H, close-up of flower.

Photographs: Navendu Page.

Elaeocarpus pulneyensis Gole, N.V.Page, Sardesai, sp. nov.

Elaeocarpus  pulneyensis can be distinguished from the majority of species of Elaeocarpus from South India and Sri Lanka in having anther tips without setae or tuft of hairs. It is morphologically most similar to Elaeocarpus variabilis, the only other species which exhibits anther tips without setae or tuft of hairs and 3-locular pyrenes. Elaeocarpus pulnyensis can be distinguished from E.variabilis based on light green sepals (vs green or reddish brown), ellipsoid fruits (vs obovoid), pyrenes which are rounded at both base and apex (vs pyrenes which are tapering towards the base and rounded towards the apex), and a pyrene circumference at widest point of 6.3–6.7 cm (vs 4.8–5.4 cm).

Etymology. The specific epithet pulneyensis is derived from the type locality, Pulney Hills, situated in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, peninsular India.

C. N. Gole, N. V. Page and  M. M. Sardesai. 2026. ELAEOCARPUS PULNEYENSIS, A New Species of Elaeocarpus (ELAEOCARPACEAE) from Peninsular India, based on Morphological and Molecular Evidence.  Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 83; 1-14. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2026.2092 [2026-01-14]

[Botany • 2025] Henckelia multiflora (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from the eastern Himalayan region of Arunachal Pradesh, India

Henckelia multiflora N.V.Page, 

in Kishwan, Thackeray et Page, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2025.2095

Abstract

Henckelia multiflora, a robust, caulescent herb, is described from the Upper Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India. The species is morphologically similar to Henckelia khasiana and H. oblongifolia but differs in having up to 30 (occasionally more) flowers per inflorescence, and a longer calyx with caudate-acuminate lobes. The species is presently known from only the Upper Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh.

Keywords: Caulescent, Endemic, Erect, Upper Siang District

Henckelia multiflora N.V.Page, sp. nov.
A, Terminal leaves; B, habit; C, abaxial side of leaf. Photographs: Navendu Page.

Henckelia multiflora N.V.Page, sp. nov.
A and B, Inflorescence; C, close-up of inflorescence, with white arrows indicating the position of bracts; D, corolla split between upper and lower lip. Photographs: Navendu Page.

Henckelia multiflora N.V.Page, sp. nov.

Henckelia multiflora is morphologically most similar to Henckelia khasiana Nampy & M.K.Akhil and Henckelia oblongifolia (Roxb.) D.J.Middleton & Mich.Möller in its caulescent habit and many-flowered cymose inflorescence. However, Henckelia multiflora differs from H. khasiana in having up to 30 (occasionally more) flowers per inflorescence (vs up to 12 in H. khasiana and up to 25 in H. oblongifolia), a longer calyx which is up to 4.2 cm long (vs 1.4–1.6 cm in H. khasiana and 0.6–2.2 cm in H. oblongifolia), caudate-acuminate calyx lobes (vs lanceolate in H. khasiana and triangular to triangular-acuminate in H. oblongifolia) and emarginate or shallowly bilobed stigma (vs chiritoid, distinctly forked in H. khasiana and truncate to obscurely emarginate in H. oblongifolia).

 Etymology. The specific epithet refers to its many-flowered inflorescence, which is one of the diagnostic features of this species.

S. Kishwan, T. U. Thackeray, N. V. Page. 2025. Henckelia multiflora (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from the eastern Himalayan region of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 82; 1-11. DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2025.2095 [18 December 2025]

[Botany • 2025] Heteropolygonatum farreri (Asparagaceae: Convallarioideae) • A New Species from the Gaoligongshan in eastern Myanmar and western China

Heteropolygonatum farreri Floden, 

in Floden et Pendry, 2025.

 DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2025.2057 

Abstract

A new species of Heteropolygonatum, H. farreri, is described from the easternmost part of Myanmar and western Yunnan in a limestone region of the Gaoligongshan. It is morphologically similar to Heteropolygonatum marmoratum but differs by its shortly scabrous stem, narrowly cylindrical perianth with lanceolate tepals, red-orange fruit, and diploid chromosome count. An illustration of the new species is provided, as is a map of its distribution and that of its closest relative, Heteropolygonatum marmoratum, showing their disjunction. Chromosome counts for Heteropolygonatum farreri (2n = 32) and a second count for H. marmoratum (2n = 4x = 64) are given.

Keywords: Asparagaceae, China, Chromosome, Endemic, Heteropolygonatum, Myanmar

Heteropolygonatum farreri Floden, sp. nov.
A, Habit in the field in Myanmar; B, a leafy stem with fruit; C, the perianth (outer surface; dissected, showing the insertion level of the filaments, and the lengths of the ovary and style; and showing the filament shape and lightly papillose surface ornamentation).

Scale bars in C: 1 mm. All photographs of B.Olsen s.n. (TENN), 

taken by B. Olsen (A and B) and A. J. Floden (C).

A. J. Floden and C. A. Pendry. 2025. A New Species of Heteropolygonatum (ASPARAGACEAE: CONVALLARIOIDEAE, POLYGONATEAE) from the Gaoligongshan in eastern MYANMAR and western CHINA.  Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 82; DOI: doi.org/10.24823/ejb.2025.2057 

[Botany • 2025] Memecylon coorgensis (Melastomataceae) • A New Species from the Central Western Ghats of Karnataka, India

 

Memecylon coorgensis S.S.Shrotri, T.U.Thackeray & N.V.Page,

in Shrotri, Thackeray et Page, 2025. 

https://journals.rbge.org.uk/ejb/article/view/2062

 Photographs: Navendu Page.

Abstract

Memecylon coorgensis sp. nov., a small shrubby species from the Kodagu district of Karnataka, India, is described and illustrated. The species is similar to Memecylon gracile with respect to its axillary, peduncled inflorescence but differs in having up to six flowers per inflorescence, in addition to the conical shape of its buds, its acute sepals and its acuminate petals. The species is so far known only from the Kodagu district of the state of Karnataka.

Keywords: Endemic, Kodagu district, Long-peduncled group

Memecylon coorgensis S.S.Shrotri, T.U.Thackeray & N.V.Page, sp. nov.
A, Habit; B, inflorescences; C, terminal part of a twig with young and mature leaves; D, close-up view of flower; E, branch with immature fruits.

 Photographs: Navendu Page.

Memecylon coorgensis S.S.Shrotri, T.U.Thackeray & N.V.Page, sp. nov.

Memecylon coorgensis is morphologically most closely related to M. gracile with respect to its small shrubby habit, long acuminate leaf apex, and long-peduncled axillary inflorescence. Memecylon coorgensis differs from M. gracile in having up to 2 peduncles in the leaf axils (vs solitary peduncles), up to 5 secondary peduncles (vs secondary peduncles either absent or if present only 1 in number), 1–6(–8) flowers per inflorescence (vs 1–3 flowers per inflorescence), calyx deeply lobed with sepals acute or acuminate at apex (vs calyx shallowly lobed with sepals triangular-obtuse at apex), acuminate petals (vs petals obtuse), and berry 8–11 mm in diameter (vs berry 6 mm in diameter).

S. S. Shrotri, T. U. Thackeray, N. V. Page. 2025. Memecylon coorgensis (MELASTOMATACEAE), A New Species from the Central Western Ghats of Karnataka, India.  Edinburgh Journal of Botany. DOI: 10.24823/ejb.2025.2062 

https://journals.rbge.org.uk/ejb/article/view/2062

[Botany • 2024] Pleurothallis markgruinii (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae) • A New Species from the Northwestern Ecuador

 

Pleurothallis markgruinii Baquero & M.F.Monteros,  

Baquero, Monteros, Iturralde Jimenez et Dueñas. 2024.    

 journals.RBGE.org.uk/EJB/article/view/2032   

 Researchgate.net/publication/385907281 

Abstract

Pleurothallis markgruinii, a particularly tall species for the genus, is described as new to science and an illustration provided. The new species is most similar to Pleurothallis gargantua and shares with that species its large size, reaching 1 m tall, but differs in the much smaller flowers with a deeply concave dorsal sepal, narrower petals, and a synsepal with strongly revolute margins that form an elongated, triangular shape. Comprehensive field research has shown Pleurothallis markgruinii to have a restricted geographical range in the northwest Andes of Ecuador, and it is assessed as Critically Endangered.

Keywords: Carchi, Dracula Reserve, New orchid species, Reserva youth land trust

Composite dissection plate for Pleurothallis markgruinii Baquero & M.F.Monteros, sp. nov.
 A, Habit; B1, flower, frontal view; B2, flower, lateral view; C, dissected perianth; D1, lip and column, lateral view; D2, lip and column, dorsal view with magnified image showing the rugulose-verrucose texture of the lip; E, capsule, dorsal view. Photographs: Marco F. Monteros.

Pleurothallis markgruinii Baquero & M.F. Monteros, sp. nov.

This new species is most similar to Pleurothallis gargantua in the large size of the plants (up to 1 m tall) and the large flowers (among the largest in the genus, between 5.6 and 10 cm long) borne at the base of a large (up to 30 cm long) ovate leaf, but it differs from that species in its considerably smaller flowers, 6.1 cm (vs 10.5 cm long when ...

Etymology. Named in memory of Mark Gruin, horticulturist, curator at Zoo America, and benefactor at the Rainforest Trust, who devoted the bulk of his life’s work to protecting nature and supporting budding conservationists.

L. E. Baquero, M. F. Monteros, G. A. Iturralde, M. M. Jimenez and R. Dueñas. 2024. PLEUROTHALLIS MARKGRUINII, A NEW PLEUROTHALLIDINAE(ORCHIDACEAE) FROM NORTHWESTERN ECUADOR. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 81; DOI: 10.24823/ejb.2024.2032   journals.RBGE.org.uk/EJB/article/view/2032 

   Researchgate.net/publication/385907281_PLEUROTHALLIS_MARKGRUINII_A_NEW_SPECIES_from_NW_ECUADOR

Pleurothallis markgruinii, una especie con plantas particularmente largas dentro del género se describe e ilustra aquí como nueva para la ciencia. La nueva especie es similar a Pleurothallis gargantua y comparte con esta las grandes plantas que alcanzan 1 m en longitud, pero se diferencia en las flores mucho más pequeñas con el sépalo dorsal muy cóncavo, pétalos más estrechos, y un sinsépalo con márgenes fuertemente revolutos que le dan una forma alargada y triangular. Investigación de campo exhaustiva muestra que Pleurothallis markgruinii tiene una distribución restringida, al noroeste de los Andes en Ecuador y es evaluada como en peligro crítico.

[Botany • 2024] Primulina hsiwenii (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from southeastern Yunnan, China

 

Primulina hsiwenii Lei Cai, Ting Zhang & J.D.Ya,

in Cai, Ya et Zhang, 2024.   

Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 81; 

锡文报春苣苔  ||   journals.rbge.org.uk/EJB

Photographs: Lei Cai.

Abstract

A new species of Gesneriaceae, Primulina hsiwenii Lei Cai, Ting Zhang & J.D.Ya, from the karst regions in southeastern Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. Its morphological relationship with a similar species is discussed, and a detailed description, colour  photographs, distribution and habitat information and an IUCN conservation assessment are provided.

Keywords: Flora of China, Karst regions, New species, Primulina

Primulina hsiwenii Lei Cai, Ting Zhang & J.D.Ya, sp. nov. 
A, Habitat; B, flowering plant

Primulina hsiwenii Lei Cai, Ting Zhang & J.D.Ya, sp. nov. 
 C, adaxial leaf surface; D, abaxial leaf surface; E, flower, front view; F, flower, side view; G, flower, top view; H and I, opened corolla, exposing stamens and staminodes, and pistil with calyx; J, abaxial view of adnate anthers cohering face to face; K, adaxial view of cohering anthers.

Photographs: Lei Cai.

Primulina hsiwenii Lei Cai, Ting Zhang & J.D.Ya, sp. nov.

A species closely allied to Primulina luochengensis (Yan Liu & W.B.Xu) Mich.Möller & A.Weber in habit, flattened petiole, shape of leaf blade, and shape and structure of flower but mainly differing from the latter in leaf blade covered with appressed puberulent hairs adaxially, puberulent abaxially (vs pubescent on both surfaces), bracts ovate triangular, c.1 mm long (vs narrowly linear, 4–6 mm long), corolla narrow campanulate, 12–16 mm long (vs obliquely campanulate, 8–9 mm long), stamens adnate to ...

Etymology. The specific epithet is in memory of Prof. Li Hsi-Wen of Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, for his contribution to the taxonomy of the Gesneriaceae family in the Flora of China (Wang et al., 1998).

Vernacular name. The Chinese name is Xī Wén Bào Chūn Jù Tái (锡文报春苣苔).

L. Cai, J. D. Ya and T. Zhang. 2024. PRIMULINA HSIWENII (GESNERIACEAE), A NEW SPECIES FROM SOUTHEASTERN YUNNAN, CHINA. Edinburgh Journal of Botany. 81;  journals.rbge.org.uk/EJB/article/view/1912