[Botany • 2026] Reinstatement of Meiogyne monogyna (Annonaceae) and A Key to the Species of Meiogyne in China

 

Meiogyne monogyna (Merr.) Bân, 

in Yang, Wang, Lai et Tan, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.5  

english.CAS.cn 

Abstract

Meiogyne monogyna (Merr.) Bân was previously treated as conspecific with the widespread M. virgata (Blume) Miq. and was synonymized under the latter. However, based on detailed examinations of herbarium specimens and field observations of living plants, we confirm that M. monogyna is a morphologically distinct species. Consequently, we reinstate its species status and document it as a new record for the flora of China, providing a comprehensive taxonomic description and including it in an updated identification key for all three species of Meiogyne recorded in China.

Magnoliids, Meiogyne virgata, morphology, synonym, taxonomy, type, Yunnan

Meiogyne monogyna (Merr.) Bân

BIN YANG, WEN-GUANG WANG, HAN LAI, JIN-GUO ZHANG, YAN-MEI PING and YUN-HONG TAN. 2026. Reinstatement of Meiogyne monogyna (Annonaceae) and A Key to the Species of Meiogyne in China including a new record.  Phytotaxa. 767(1); 45-53. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.5 [2026-07-16]

Meiogyne monogyna Reinstated as A Distinct Species and Newly Recorded in China

https://english.CAS.cn/newsroom/research-news/202607/t20260727_1179205.shtml

[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] Ophiorrhiza saxatilis (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from Guizhou, China

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li,

in Li, An, Wu, Yu, Qiu, Liu et Tan, 2026. 

 岩生蛇根草  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.197480

Abstract

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li, sp. nov., a new species of the genus Ophiorrhiza (Rubiaceae) discovered in the karst regions of Guizhou, China, and provides its taxonomic basis from a morphological perspective. The new species is morphologically similar to Ophiorrhiza lignosa, but differs from the latter by having an inflorescence in that its young branches are uniformly pubescent (vs. bifariously pubescent in O. lignosa); the abaxial leaf surface is pubescent (vs. puberulent only along the midrib and secondary veins in O. lignosa); the bracteoles are 5–6 mm long (vs. 1.5–3 mm long in O. lignosa); the petioles are 2–5.8 mm long (vs. 6–20 mm long in O. lignosa); the stamens are inserted at the base of the corolla tube (vs. inserted near the middle of the corolla tube in O. lignosa); the flowers are distylous (vs. monomorphic with pin flowers in O. lignosa), and the styles of long-styled flowers are 6–8 mm long (vs. 10–11 mm long in O. lignosa). These stable and significant morphological differences, combined with a comprehensive and detailed morphological description of the new species and a comparison of diagnostic characters with similar species, firmly support the recognition of Ophiorrhiza saxatilis as a distinct new species.

Key words: Karst, Morphology, New Taxon, Ophiorrhiza, Rubiaceae

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis.
A, B. Habitat; C. Plant; D. Flowering branch; E. Dissected flowers: long-styled flower (above) and short-styled flower (below); F. Style of long-styled flower; G. Style of short-styled flower; H. Longitudinally dissected short-styled flower; I. Longitudinally dissected long-styled flower; J. Fruit; K. Infructescence; L. Adaxial leaf surface; M. Abaxial leaf surface; N. Branchlets.

Ophiorrhiza saxatilis M.T.An & G.L.Li, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Ophiorrhiza saxatilis is morphologically similar to O. lignosa Merr., but can be distinguished by several key characteristics (Table 2): uniformly pubescent young branches (vs. bifariously pubescent); white corolla lobes with ridges (vs. purple, without ridges); stamens inserted at the base of the corolla tube (vs. inserted near the middle of the corolla tube); flowers distylous (vs. monomorphic, with pin flowers); long-styled flowers 6–8 mm long (vs. 10–11 mm long); purple midrib on the abaxial leaf surface (vs. green); abaxial leaf surface pubescent (vs. puberulent only on the midrib and secondary veins); bracteoles 5–6 mm long (vs. 1.5–3 mm long); and petioles 2–5.8 mm long (vs. 6–20 mm long).

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from the habitat of the new species, which occurs in a typical karst limestone environment. It mainly grows in harsh habitats such as rock crevices and stony slopes.

Local name. Simplified Chinese: 岩生蛇根草;
Chinese Pinyin: yán shēng shé gēn cǎo.

 Guang-Lin Li, Ming-Tai An, Xu Wu, Jiang-Hong Yu, Jian Qiu, Shao-Fei Liu and Cheng-jiang Tan. 2026. Ophiorrhiza saxatilis (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Guizhou, China. PhytoKeys. 278: 27-37.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.278.197480 [24-07-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Petrocosmea anoleuca (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from limestone cliffs in Yunnan, China

 

Petrocosmea anoleuca   M.Q.Han & C.Liu, 

in Liu, Cai, Zhong, Zhao, Wang et Han, 2026.

沧源石蝴蝶  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-026-10406-z

 

Summary

Petrocosmea anoleuca M.Q.Han & C.Liu (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China, is described and colour images and a provisional IUCN conservation assessment are provided. The new species is similar to P. cavaleriei H.Lév., but differs in having subpeltate leaf blades, a white corolla tube base lacking spots, a darker purple throat, purple abaxial lip lobes and nearly straight, sparsely puberulent filaments.

Key Words: Flora of Yunnan, Karst habitats, taxonomy

Petrocosmea anoleuca, images and SEM images.
A – B habit, in natural habit; C – D flower, front view; E flower, side view; F flower bud; G corolla, longitudinally cut; H corolla, transversely cut; J peltate leaf blade, abaxial surface; K – L SEM; K rhizomatous stem; L ovary; M ovary, transversely cut; N pollen.

photos: a – b Cheng Liu and c – k Mengqi Han.

Petrocosmea anoleuca M.Q.Han & C.Liu sp. nov. 

Recognition. Similar to Petrocosmea cavaleriei, but differing in having subpeltate leaf blades (vs petiole attached at the base in P. cavaleriei), the base of the corolla tube white and lacking spots (vs with three antepetalous spots above the base), the throat inside abaxially darker purple (vs white), the abaxial lip lobes purple (vs pale purple, with two yellow spots at the sinuses between the lateral and median lobes) and filaments almost straight and very sparsely puberulent and with scattered capitate-glandular hairs (vs geniculate near the middle, forming an angle of about 160° and densely covered with capitate-glandular hairs).

Etymology. The term anoleuca derives from Greek roots, ano- (ἄνω, "above") and -leuca (λευκός, "white"), literally meaning "white above". The epithet of the new species refers to the white, upper section of the corolla when in bloom.

vernacular name. Chinese name: cāng yuán shí hú dié (沧源石蝴蝶).

Cheng Liu, Jie Cai, Liang-Liang Zhong, Jin-Chao Zhao, Qiang Wang and Meng-Qi Han. 2026. Petrocosmea anoleuca (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from limestone cliffs in Yunnan, China.  Kew Bulletin. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-026-10406-z  [21 July 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Mazus dabieshanensis (Mazaceae) • A New Species from eastern China

Mazus dabieshanensis  R.Tong and T.Deng, 

in Tong, Shen, Luo et Deng, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05176

Abstract

Mazus dabieshanensis, a newly described species endemic to the Dabieshan Mountains in eastern China, is illustrated and described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear and chloroplast DNA sequences consistently demonstrate that this new species forms a stable clade with other Mazus species characterized by a pubescent ovary. Morphologically, the new species is readily distinguished by its hard and numerous stolons, plants with white villous, leaves attenuate into a petiole-like base, corolla upper lip bilobed, lobes without odontolobate incisions. This unique combination of characteristics effectively differentiates it from all other known Mazus species. In conclusion, both morphological evidence and molecular phylogenetic analyses support that this species belongs to Mazus and represents a previously unreported new species clearly distinct from other members of the genus.

Keywords: Dabieshan Mountains, Mazus, morphology, new species, phylogeny

 

Morphology of Mazus dabieshanensis.
 (A) Habitat: forest edge, (B) plant in April, (C) plant in August, (D) leaves, (E) stolons, (F) flower in lateral view, (G) flowers in face view, (H) pubescent ovary, (I) seeds.

Mazus dabieshanensis R.Tong and T.Deng sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Mazus dabieshanensis differs from M. saltuarius in its pubescent ovary (versus glabrous), more than four pairs of cauline leaves (versus 2–4 pairs), and serrate leaf margin (versus coarsely serrate). It differs from M. procumbens in its forest habitat (versus cliff habitat), serrate leaf margin (versus coarsely crenate), and leaf attenuate into a petiole (versus with distinct long petiole).

Etymology: The specific epithet ‘dabieshanensis' refers to the mountains in which it occurs, the Dabieshan Mountains, eastern China.

 Rui Tong, Zhuo-Min Shen, Peng-Rui Luo, Tao Deng. 2026. Mazus dabieshanensis sp. nov. (Mazaceae) from eastern China. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05176 [23 July 2026]

[Botany • 2024] Thrixspermum yei (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Aeridinae) • A New Species from Xizang, China

Thrixspermum yei M. K. Li, Z. Xing & Y. Luo, 

in Li, Pang, Chen, Deng, Wang, Xing et Luo, 2024. 

叶氏白点兰 | taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/1988

Abstract

A new species Thrixspermum yei M. K. Li, Z. Xing & Y. Luo is described and illustrated from Xizang, China. It is similar to T. fantasticum and T. duplocallosum but differs from them in having a yellowish, ovate, indistinctly 3-lobed lip, disk with 4 yellow papillary front calli densely covered with yellow powder, and base with a cone-like appendage.

Keyword: Thrixspermum fantasticum, Thrixspermum duplocallosum, taxonomy, Xizang, China

Thrixspermum yei M. K. Li, Z. Xing & Y. Luo  
 A-B. plant and inflorescence; C. inflorescence; D-F. flower; G-H. split flower; IK. close-up of lip; L. lip and column. M-N. column and ovary; O-P. anther cap; Q. pollinia. (Photos: by Shen-shen Pang).

Thrixspermum yei M. K. Li, Z. Xing & Y. Luo
A. plant and inflorescence; B. inflorescence; C. flower; D. split flower; E1-E2. Column. F1-F2. close-up of lip; G. anther cap; H. pollinia.

 (Drawn by Jian-ping Deng).

Thrixspermum yei M.K.Li, Z.Xing & Y.Luo, sp. nov. 

 Type: CHINA. Xizang, Mêdog County, Dexing village, 95°14'42.89"E, 29°13'48.19"N, 1184 m, epiphytes on tree trunks in evergreen broad-leaved forest, 08 June 2022, M. K. Li 2022160 holotype: T000167542 (TAAHUC!); isotype: 022016 (XZE!). 

Diagnosis: Thrixspermum yei is morphologically similar to T. fantasticum and T. duplocallosum, but can be clearly distinguished from them by having a yellowish, ovate, indistinctly 3-lobed lip, disk with 4 yellow papillary front calli densely covered with yellow powder, and base with a cone-like appendage.

  

Etymology: The specific epithet "yei" is in honor of Mr. De-Ping YE (1977-2020), who dedicated over twenty years to the botanical surveys and conservation of wild orchids in China. 

Vernacular name: Ye Shi Bai Dian Lan, 叶氏白点兰

Meng-Kai Li, Shen-Shen Pang, Xue-Da Chen, Jian-Ping Deng, Wei Wang, Zhen Xing and Yan Luo. 2024. Thrixspermum yei (Aeridinae, Vandeae, Epidendroideae, Orchidaceae) - A New Species from Xizang, China. Taiwania. 69(2); 138-141. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2024.69.138

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/1988 

[Botany • 2026] Primula chongqingensis (Primulaceae) • A New Species from Chongqing, China

Primula chongqingensis K.Liang & S.R.Yi, 

in Liang, Zhang et Yi, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.2.6 

 x.com/Jungle_KL

Abstract

Primula chongqingensis K.Liang & S.R.Yi, sp. nov., a new species of Primula sect. Ranunculoides from Chongqing, China, is described. The new species is currently known only from Qianjiang District, where it grows on wet moss-covered rock faces and dripping cliffs beside streams and below waterfalls in shaded valley woodland. It is most similar to P. ranunculoides in overall morphology, but differs by its smaller leaves with markedly fewer lateral segments, stable long-homostylous flowers, pedicels and calyces covered with short glandular hairs, and a relatively short calyx less than half as long as the corolla tube, usually reaching ca. one third of it. Filiform propagative shoots with apical bulblets are only occasionally produced in P. chongqingensis, whereas similar structures are consistently and abundantly produced in P. ranunculoides. These combined vegetative and reproductive differences support its recognition as a distinct species rather than an infraspecific taxon of P. ranunculoides. A morphological description, distribution information, provisional conservation assessment, a diagnostic comparison with P. ranunculoides, and a key to the species of Primula sect. Ranunculoides are provided.

Eudicots, narrow endemic, homostyly, morphological comparison, Qianjiang District, sect. Ranunculoides, taxonomy, Wuling Mountains

Primula chongqingensis K.Liang & S.R.Yi, sp. nov.

KE (Jungle) LIANG, HONG-JING ZHANG and SI-RONG YI. 2026. Primula chongqingensis (Primulaceae), A New Species from Chongqing, China.  Phytotaxa. 763(2);  193-200. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.2.6 [2026-06-19]

 x.com/Jungle_KL/status/2067732578585460962

[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] Argostemma baotingense (Rubiaceae) • A New Species from Hainan Island, South China

 

Argostemma baotingense S.P.Dong & H.B.Yang, 

 in Dong, Yuan, Wang et Yang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.195404 

Abstract

Argostemma baotingense, a new species of Rubiaceae from Hainan Island, southern China, is described. This new species resembles A. bachmaense but can be distinguished by its suberect or creeping stem, linear leaves with a greenish-white abaxial surface, white and glabrous inflorescence, and glabrous calyx. An identification key and photographs of the nine Argostemma species in China are provided.

Key words: Argostemma, new species, taxonomy

Argostemma baotingense.
A. Plant in natural habitat; B. Flowering plant; C. Flowers; D. Calyx; E. Leafy branch, adaxial view; F. Leafy branch, abaxial view; G. Leaves, adaxial view; H. Leaves, abaxial view; I, J. A node with opposite leaves and stipules; K. Flower, apical view; L. Flower, bottom view; M, N. Inflorescence; O. Androecium; P. Pistil.

Argostemma baotingense S.P.Dong & H.B.Yang, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. The new species is morphologically similar to A. bachmaense T.V.Do but differs by the suberect or creeping stem (vs. erect), the linear leaves (vs. oblanceolate to spatulate), glabrous inflorescence (vs. pubescent), glabrous calyx (vs. pubescent). A detailed morphological comparison between the two species is provided in Table 1. Photographs of seven Argostemma species in China have been provided (Fig. 2). A key to all the nine species of Argostemma in China is also provided at the end of the text.

Shu-Peng Dong, Lang-Xing Yuan, Qing-Long Wang and Hu-Biao Yang. 2026. Argostemma baotingense (Rubiaceae), A New Species from Hainan Island, South China. PhytoKeys. 276: 253-260. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.195404   [18 Jun 2026]

[Botany • 2018] Lobelia hongiana (Campanulaceae) • A New Species from Guangxi, China

Lobelia hongiana Q.F.Wang & G.W.Hu, 

in Li, Wei, Liu, Chen, Hu et Wang, 2018.

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.95.20245

Abstract

Lobelia hongiana, a new species of Campanulaceae from Guangxi, South China, is described and illustrated here. This new species is most similar to L. chinensis and L. loochooensis, but differs by its elliptic-obovate or oblanceolate leaf, 2.5–3 mm long greenish-carmine hypanthium, 5 or 6 calyx lobes, purplish-white corolla, with yellowish-green blotches at the base of lower lobes, glabrous filaments, 7–8 mm long broadly obconic capsule. Molecular phylogenetic analysis has been conducted based on ITS and two chloroplast sequences (atpB and rbcL) and 14 taxa in Lobelia are included. L. hongiana is well supported as a new species by the evidence from both morphology and molecular phylogeny.

Keywords: Hypsela, Lobelia chinensis, Lobelia loochooensis, Southern China

 

Photos of Lobelia hongiana Q.F.Wang & G.W.Hu: morphology.
A Habitat B Part of one individual C A stem bearing leaves and a flower D–G Flower viewed from different orientations H–I Fruit viewed from different orientations.

Lobelia hongiana Q.F.Wang & G.W.Hu, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: The new species is distinguished from L. chinensis and L. loochooensis by its elliptic-obovate or oblanceolate leaves, usually sinuate-dentate margin; hypanthium 2.5–3 mm long, greenish-carmine; calyx lobes 5 or 6, shorter than hypanthium; corolla purplish-white, yellowish- green blotches at the base of lower lobes; glabrous filaments; broadly obconic capsule, 7–8 mm long; flowering time from May to July.

 

Distribution and ecology: The new species has been found in Huixian Wetland, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in China, with only two populations. There is a high probability that L. hongiana is also distributed at adjacent areas, given its vegetative propagation traits. Its living environment is wetland and farmland.

Phenology: The new species was found in flower from May to July.

Etymology: Species epithet, “hongiana”, is in honour of Prof. De-Yuan Hong who made a significant contribution to the authors’ knowledge of Campanulaceae.

 Zhi-Zhong Li, Neng Wei, Yan Liu, Jin-Ming Chen, Guangwan Hu and Qing-Feng Wang. 2018. Lobelia hongiana (Campanulaceae), A New Species from Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys. 95: 27-36.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.95.20245

[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 • 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) 

https://bsky.app/profile/anbf.bsky.social

[Botany • 2026] Oreocharis fulvovillosa (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from western Yunnan, China

Oreocharis fulvovillosa  M.Q.Han, H.Jiang & Y.Wang,

in Wang, Jiang, Xu et Han, 2026. 

德宏直瓣苣苔  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.182136

Abstract

Oreocharis fulvovillosa, a new species of Gesneriaceae, is described and illustrated. This new species has only been discovered on the rock walls of an isolated karst hill at its type locality in Mang City, western Yunnan, China.

Key words: Flora of Yunnan, karst, yellow flowers

 

Oreocharis fulvovillosa sp. nov.
A. Habitat; B. Plant habit in natural habitat; C. Adaxial (left) and abaxial (right) leaf surfaces; D. Petiole with long fulvous indumentum; E. Rhizomatous stem; F. Flower in adaxial view; G. Flower in abaxial view; H. Flower in side view; I. Flower longitudinally cut, male stage with immature pistil; J. Flower transversely cut, male stage with immature pistil; K. Immature pistil and stamens with dehisced anthers cohering in pairs; L. Flower in front view; M. Capsules at different developmental stages: two immature capsules (left) and two dehisced capsules from the previous year (right); N. Pistils at different developmental stages: left, at flower opening with immature stigma; middle and right, at stigma maturity; O. Transverse sections of ovaries, all arranged with the dorsal calyx lobe positioned upwards: upper image, ovary at stigma maturity; lower images, ovary with immature stigma, showing transverse sections of the upper part of the ovary (left) and the lower part of the ovary (right).

Oreocharis fulvovillosa M.Q.Han, H.Jiang & Y.Wang, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. The new species is most similar to Oreocharis bullata, sharing yellow corollas and bullate leaf blades, but differs in having crenulate leaf margins (vs. double dentate), a slender corolla tube ca. 1 cm long (vs. tubular, ca. 2.7 cm long), and shorter capsules 1–1.9 cm long (vs. 3.0–4.2 cm long). It is also similar to Oreocharis fulva in corolla shape and colour but differs in having bullate leaf blades (vs. not bullate) and crenulate margins (vs. serrate to crenate).

Etymology. The epithet refers to the fulvous (yellowish) colour of the long, soft hairs on the petioles.

Vernacular name. Chinese Mandarin: dé hóng zhí bàn jù tái, (德宏直瓣苣苔).

Yang Wang, Hong Jiang, Bo Xu and Meng-Qi Han. 2026. Oreocharis fulvovillosa (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from western Yunnan, China. PhytoKeys. 276: 17-23.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.182136 [08-06-2026]

 

[Botany • 2022] Cymbidium purpureisepalum (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae) • A New Species from China: evidence from Morphological and Molecular Data

Cymbidium purpureisepalum M.J.Zhu & S.R.Lan, 

in Zhu, Ke, Zhao, Wang, ... et Lan, 2022. 

紫萼兰  ||  DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.538.3.5 

 Researchgate.net/publication/359082326 

 

Abstract

A new orchid species, Cymbidium purpureisepalum, from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular analyses. Detailed comparison of the newly discovered orchid with other members of Cymbidium indicated the new orchid is distinct from all other recognised species in Cymbidium. Molecular analyses based on nuclear (nrITS) and plastid DNA (matK) sequence data also support the status of C. purpureisepalum as a new species, which is sister to C. tortisepalum and C. serratum.

Keywords: Yunnan Province, Chinese orchids, Cymbidium, Cymbidium subgenus Jensoa

Cymbidium purpureisepalum M.J.Zhu & S.R.Lan, 
 A. Flowering plant. B. Tepals. C. Pollinarium, front view. D. Column, front view.

Drawn by Wenqi Hu.

Cymbidium purpureisepalum M.J.Zhu & S.R.Lan,
A. Flowering plant. B. Flower, front view. C. Flower, back view. D. Structure of the flower.  
E. Flower of C. serratum. F. Flowers of C. tortisepalum.

Cymbidium purpureisepalum M.J.Zhu & S.R.Lan

(紫萼兰)

Etymology:— Referring to a flower with purple sepals, from the Latin purpureus (purple) and the Greek sepalum (sepal).  

Meng-Jia Zhu, Shijie Ke, Xuewei Zhao, Qian-Qian Wang, Guizhen Chen, Zhong-Jian Liu and Siren Lan. 2022. Cymbidium purpureisepalum (Orchidaceae; Epidendroideae), A New Species from China: evidence from Morphological and Molecular Data. Phytotaxa. 538(3); 225-233. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.538.3.5  

Researchgate.net/publication/359082326_Cymbidium_purpureisepalum_a_new_species_from_China

[Botany • 2026] Primula xingyiensis (Primulaceae) • A New Species from Guizhou, China

Primula xingyiensis  Z.K.Wu & C.Y.Deng,

in Shi, Deng, Lang, Liu et Wu, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.195710

Abstract

Primula xingyiensis Z.K.Wu & C.Y.Deng, a new species of Primulaceae from Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. Morphological evidence places P. xingyiensis within Primula sect. Carolinella, a section characterised by plants completely efarinose but bearing pubescent or glandular hairs; leaf base cordate to rounded, rarely broadly cuneate, with distinct petioles; calyx campanulate or narrowly campanulate, longer than its diameter, split to 1/3–1/2 of its length; and capsule oblong, dehiscing nearly calyptrate at maturity. The new species is distinguished by its gracile habit, shortened stem, small leaves with long villous hairs on both surfaces, long-styled homostylous flowers, and a corolla that is 7–8 times as long as the calyx. Information on the distribution, morphological comparisons with closely related species, and the conservation status of the new species is also provided, along with a key to the known species of Primula sect. Carolinella.

Key words: Conservation status, diversity, Guizhou, nomenclature, taxonomy, xing yi bao chun

Primula xingyiensis sp. nov.
  A, B. Habitat; C, D. Habit during flowering; E. Leaves, the left: adaxial surface, the right: abaxial surface; F. Scape; G. Frontal view of flower; H. Dissected corolla showing anthers and stigmas; I. Capsule.

Photographed by Zhikun Wu.

Two morphologically similar taxa and Primula xingyiensis.
A. Holotype of P. calyptrata (X Gong 02815, KUN!); B. Isotype of P. intanoensis (M. Tagawa, K. Iwatsuki & N. Fukuoka 2863, HUH!); C. Holotype of Primula xingyiensis (ZKWU2025210, KUN!);
D. P. calyptrata; E, F. P. xingyiensis; D–F. Photographed by Zhikun Wu.

 Xiang-Ting Shi, Chao-Yi Deng, Yuan-Xing Lang, Zeng-Cai Liu and Zhi-Kun Wu. 2026. Primula xingyiensis (Primulaceae), A New Species in Primula sect. Carolinella from Guizhou, China. PhytoKeys. 276: 1-11. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.276.195710 [5 Jun 2026]