[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] Sinningia pampeana (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from the Pampa's rocky outcrops in southern Brazil and Uruguay

 

Sinningia pampeana G.E.Ferreira and Chautems, 
  

in Ferreira, Spiazzi, Barbieri, Chautems et Araújo, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05231 

Abstract

Sinningia pampeana is a new rupicolous species from the rocky outcrops of the Pampa biome in southern Brazil and Uruguay. Morphological analyses based on herbarium material, field observations, and detailed illustrations support its recognition as a distinct species from Sinningia sellovii. Sinningia pampeana is restricted to rock outcrops within the Pampa grasslands, where populations are threatened by grazing, habitat degradation, and potential mining activities. Given the current uncertainty regarding its distribution and sampling completeness, a preliminary conservation assessment of ‘Data Deficient' (DD) is proposed under IUCN criteria.

Keywords: Gesneriaceae, new species, Pampa biome, rocky outcrops, Sinningia

Sinningia pampeana sp. nov. (A) Corolla, frontal view, (B) inflorescence, detail, (C) trichome structure, (D) ovary, transverse section showing the nectary consisting of two separate dorsal glands, (E) ovary, style, and nectary, (F) calyx and corolla showing stamens, (G) coherent anthers, detail, (H) corolla throat, detail showing stamens and anthers, (I) immature capsule, (J) habit.

Drawn from Jarenkow and Garcia 3607.

Morphology of Sinningia pampeana sp. nov.
 (A) Habitat on rocky outcrop, (B) inflorescence in the shrub vegetation, (C) inflorescence, (D) habit, (E) axillary flowers, (F) close-up of the calyx and corolla.

Photo by A. Chautems.

Sinningia pampeana G.E.Ferreira and Chautems sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Sinningia pampeana differs from S. sellovii by its consistently red, horizontally oriented corollas (versus whitish pink to lilac or yellowish and pendent corollas), included anthers (versus exserted), a slightly bilabiate limb with enlarged dorsal lobes (versus a corolla tubular with subequal lobes), and the presence of only one to ca four flowers per bract axil (versus 3–9 flowers).

Etymology: The specific epithet ‘pampeana' refers to the Pampa biome, characterized by grasslands and rocky outcrops across southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. The name derives from the Quechua word ‘pampa', meaning ‘plain' or ‘open field'.

Gabriel Emiliano Ferreira, Daniel Alves Spiazzi, Pedro Henrique Sonsim Barbieri, Alain Chautems and Andréa Onofre Araújo. 2026. Sinningia pampeana sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from the Pampa's rocky outcrops in southern Brazil and Uruguay. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05231 [24 June 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] 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 • 2026] Aeschynanthus luteoflorus (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Kalimantan, Indonesia

Aeschynanthus luteoflorus Zainudin, Idris & Yudistira, 

in Zainudin, Idris et Yudistira, 2026. 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2191  

Abstract

Aeschynanthus luteoflorus (Gesneriaceae) is here described as a new species from Kalimantan, Indonesia, adding to the diversity of Aeschynanthus in Borneo. The species is morphologically similar in its inflorescence to A. dasycalyx Hallier f. but distinguished by elliptic, sometimes oblong leaves, ovate-elliptic bracteoles, and a tubular-cupuliform calyx that is brown to bright greenish-yellow. It further differs in having a bright greenish-yellow and longer corolla. The new species is also distinct from A. flavidus Mendum & P. Woods by its elliptic, sometimes oblong leaves, tubular-cupuliform calyx, and markedly shorter corolla, which is approximately 1.5 times the calyx length. Notes on distribution, ecology, conservation status, and comparative illustrations are provided.

Keyword: Aeschynanthus dasycalyx, Aeschynanthus flavidus, Borneo, Gesneriaceae, Lipstick flower, Xanthanthos

  

Aeschynanthus luteoflorus Zainudin, Idris & Yudistira, sp. nov.;
A. Plant habit; B. Stem with Inflorescences; C. Abaxial side of leaf; D. to E. Inflorescences at different stages of development; F. Close-up mature flower (front, lateral, and back view); G. Corolla with rare red coloration; H. Longitudinal corolla section; I. Dissection of calyx (inner surface); J. Close up inner surface of calyx; K. Corolla lobes margin; L. Close up inner surface of corolla tube; M. Sparsely papillose scabrid filaments; N. Disk; O. The close-up part of pistil showing glandular hairs under stigma; P. Pistil; Q. Capsule.

Photos taken by Zainudin, based on Zainudin ZBA301090724 and Zainudin ZBA302250622.

Aeschynanthus luteoflorus Zainudin, Idris & Yudistira, sp. nov.;
A. Stem with inflorescences and capsule; B. Close-up mature flowers; C. Corolla split open showing stamens and pistil; D. Longitudinal corolla section; E. Pistil; F. Anther; G. Style and Stigma.

Illustrated by Yuanito Eliazar.

Aeschynanthus luteoflorus Zainudin, Idris & Yudistira, sp. nov.   

 Diagnosis: A. luteoflorus is similar to A. dasycalyx Hallier f., but differs in having elliptic, sometimes oblong leaves (vs. ovate); ovate-elliptic bracteoles (vs. linearlanceolate); and a tubular-cupuliform calyx (vs. ovatesubcylindrical to sub-urceolate) that is brown to bright greenish yellow (vs. shiny blackish blue). Furthermore, it possesses a longer corolla (2.3–2.5 cm vs. 1.8–2 cm), that is bright greenish yellow (vs. vivid red). A. luteoflorus also differs from A. flavidus Mendum & P.Woods, another yellow-flowered species from Borneo, by its elliptic, sometimes oblong leaves (vs. narrowly to broadly elliptic), tubular-cupuliform calyx (vs. tubular to infundibuliform), and a significantly shorter corolla (2.3– 2.5 cm vs. 5.5–6.3 cm) that is approximately 1.5 times the calyx length (vs. >2 times) (Table 1).

Etymology: The specific epithet refers to the flower color; 'luteoflorus' translates to yellow-flowered. This term is a combination of two Latin roots: luteus (yellow) and florus (derived from flos, flower).  

Vernacular name: In the Banjar language, Aeschynanthus is called "Kambang Gincu," which means "lipstick flower" (kambang = flower, gincu = lipstick). 

 Zainudin, Abdul Rahim Idris and Yuda Rehata Yudistira. 2026. Aeschynanthus luteoflorus (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from Kalimantan, Indonesia. Taiwania. 71(3); 477-482. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.477 [24 May 2026] taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2191  

[Botany • 2026] Henckelia moniliformis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from North-Eastern Thailand

Henckelia moniliformis Sirim., 

in Sirimongkol, Tetsana et Middleton, 2026. 

เศวตนาด้วง หรือ ดาวสร้อยไข่มุก  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.1.06  

 facebook.com/ForestHerbarium

Abstract

The new species Henckelia moniliformis (Gesneriaceae) is described from North-Eastern Thailand. A key to the species of Henckelia in Thailand is provided, along with illustrations, notes on the ecology and the IUCN conservation status of the new species.

Keywords: Henckelia amplexifolia, Henckelia nakianensis, Lamiales, revision,taxonomy

Henckelia moniliformis Sirim.:
A.–C. habitat; D. lower leaves; E. flower, side view; F. flower, front view; G. fruit; H. eglandular hairs.

Photos by Naiyana Tetsana.

Henckelia moniliformis Sirim.:
 A. shows undeveloped leaf; B. shows pair of small leaves; C. flower dissection; D. shows moniliform hairs; E. & F. 100X moniliform hairs; G. fruits; H. seeds.

 A.–H. photos by Sukontip Sirimongkol.

Henckelia moniliformis Sirim. sp. nov.

This new species is allied to Henckelia amplexifolia and H. nakianensis in having a campanulate corolla tube which is less than 1 cm long, but differs in having one caducous bract (two persistent bracts in H. amplexifolia and H. nakianensis), two flowers per inflorescence (vs mostly more than two flowers per inflorescence), calyx persistent (vs calyx caducous), two lobes of upper lip hooded (vs two lobes of upper lip straight), anthers with dense moniliform hairs only on the lower half (vs anthers glabrous), staminodes apparently lacking (vs present) and orthocarpic fruit (vs  plagiocarpic  fruit).  It  also  differs  from  H. amplexifolia in having a caulescent habit (acaulescent in H. amplexifolia) and lacking stolons (present in H. amplexifolia) and differs from H. nakianensis in having more than one leaf (only one leaf in H. nakianensis) and the curved filaments (filaments straight in H. nakianensis)

  

 

Sukontip Sirimongkol, Naiyana Tetsana, David J. Middleton. 2026. A New Species of Henckelia (Gesneriaceae) from North-Eastern Thailand. Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany), 54(1); 58–63. DOI: doi.org/10.20531/tfb.2026.54.1.06 [2026-05-20] 

 facebook.com/ForestHerbarium/posts/1268341508716479

"เศวตนาด้วง" พืชชนิดใหม่ของโลก

พืชชนิดใหม่ของโลก ตีพิมพ์ในวารสาร Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany) vol. 54(1):58-63. 2026 โดย ดร. สุคนธ์ทิพย์ ศิริมงคล และ ดร. นัยนา เทศนา กลุ่มงานพฤกษศาสตร์ป่าไม้ สำนักวิจัยการอนุรักษ์ป่าไม้และพันธุ์พืช กรมอุทยานแห่งชาติ สัตว์ป่า และพันธุ์พืช ร่วมกับ Dr David J. Middleton นักพฤกษศาสตร์จากสวนพฤกษศาสตร์เอดินบะระ สกอตแลนด์ ผู้เชี่ยวชาญพืชวงศ์ชาฤาษี (Gesneriaceae) ของโครงการพรรณพฤกษชาติประเทศไทย (Flora of Thailand) ซึ่งพรรณไม้ชนิดนี้พบโดยทีมสำรวจพรรณไม้ภายใต้โครงการวิจัยความหลากหลายของพันธุ์พืชในระบบนิเวศเขาหินปูน บริเวณอำเภอนาด้วง จังหวัดเลย โดยตัวอย่างพรรณไม้ต้นแบบ (Holotype) N. Tetsana et al. หมายเลข 2974 ถูกเก็บรักษาไว้ที่หอพรรณไม้ กรมอุทยานแห่งชาติสัตว์ป่า และพันธุ์พืช (BKF)

เศวตนาด้วง หรือ ดาวสร้อยไข่มุก ชื่อพฤกษศาสตร์ Henckelia monilformis Sirim. จัดอยู่ในวงศ์ชาฤาษี (Gesneriaceae) เป็นพืชล้มลุกปีเดียว ขนาดเล็ก ใบเรียงตรงข้าม โดยใบคู่แรกเจริญเติบโตเต็มที่ใบเดียว ส่วนใบคู่ที่สองมีขนาดขนาดเล็ก ดอกออกเป็นช่อกระจุกจำนวน 2-8 ช่อ แต่ละช่อมี 2 ดอก ออกตามซอกใบ หรือดอกช่อล่างสุดออกติดโคนเส้นกลางใบ ดอกสีขาวรูประฆัง ยาว 4-5 มิลลิเมตร. กลีบดอก 5 กลีบ 2 กลีบด้านบนม้วนงอ 3 กลีบดอกด้านล่าง ปลายแผ่ออก เกสรเพศผู้ที่สมบูรณ์ 2 อัน ด้านล่างอับเรณูมีขนแบบเซลล์เรียงต่อกันคล้ายสร้อยไข่มุก

ปัจจุบันเศวตนาด้วง (เศวต=ขาว) เป็นพืชถิ่นเดียวของประเทศไทย พบขึ้นกระจายเฉพาะพื้นที่เขาหินปูนบริเวณของจังหวัดเลย บริเวณวัดถ้ำผาดำสันติธรรม อ.นาด้วง จ. เลย ซึ่งมีจำนวนประชากรค่อนข้างน้อย พบประมาณ 100-150 ต้น ในพื้นที่ประมาณ 2-3 ตารางเมตร บริเวณที่พบอยู่ในเขต ป่าสงวนแห่งชาติป่าโคกผาดำ 

สถานภาพการอนุรักษ์จัดเป็นพืชใกล้สูญพันธุ์ (Endangered - EN) ตามเกณฑ์ของ IUCN พบเฉพาะจากแหล่งที่เก็บตัวอย่างพรรณไม้ต้นแบบเท่านั้น ซึ่งไม่ได้เป็นพื้นที่อนุรักษ์คุ้มครอง ในฤดูแล้ง พืชอาจถูกรบกวนโดยนักท่องเที่ยว ยังไม่พบแหล่งกระจายพันธุ์ของพืชชนิดนี้เพิ่มเติม การสำรวจพืชชนิดนี้ในแหล่งหินปูนอื่น ๆ ในภูมิภาคนี้อย่างเข้มข้นคาดว่าจะนำไปสู่การค้นพบประชากรเพิ่มเติม ซึ่งมีความเป็นไปได้ว่าถิ่นที่อยู่อาศัยที่เหมาะสมของพืชชนิดนี้มีจำกัด

การอนุรักษ์ถิ่นที่อยู่เขาหินปูนหย่อมเล็ก ๆ โดยการประกาศเป็นพื้นที่อนุรักษ์ความหลากหลายทางชีวภาพนอกเขตพื้นที่คุ้มครอง หรือ Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures: OECMs เป็นแนวทางหนึ่งที่ช่วยอนุรักษ์ถิ่นที่อยู่อาศัย รวมถึงการเก็บรักษาเมล็ดในธนาคารเมล็ด (Seed Bank) ก็เป็นตัวช่วยที่สำคัญ

[Botany • 2026] Didymocarpus xuanlienensis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Vietnam

 

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis T.S.Hoang, W.G.Wang & H.C.Xi,  

in Tran, Hoang, Wang, Lang et  Xi, 2026. 

Song quả Xuân Liên  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.275.185766

 

Abstract

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis, a new species from Vietnam, is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to D. brevipedunculatus and D. purpureobracteatus in terms of corolla size and color but differs from D. brevipedunculatus in leaf blade shape, bract shape, indumentum, and calyx shape and differs from D. purpureobracteatus in peduncle indumentum, bract shape, and calyx shape. A detailed morphological description of the new species and a key to all Didymocarpus species in Vietnam are provided.

Key words: Didymocarpus, new taxon, taxonomy, Vietnam

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis T.S.Hoang, W.G.Wang & H.C.Xi, sp. nov.
A. Habitat; B. Flowering plant; C. Leaves, adaxial and abaxial views; D. Inflorescences; E. Part of inflorescence, showing peduncle, pedicel and bracts; F. Bracts; G. Calyx and disc; H. Flowers; I. Dissected corolla, showing stamens and pistil (Photos by Son Thanh Hoang).

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis T.S.Hoang, W.G.Wang & H.C.Xi, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. The new species differs from the most similar species, Didymocarpus brevipedunculatus Y.H.Tan & Bin Yang, (2019: 191), in leaf blade elliptic to oblong, base cuneate (vs. ovate, base extremely obliquely cordate); bracts broadly ovate, glabrous (vs. orbicular to ovate, sparsely villous); calyx broadly campanulate, lobes triangular (vs. campanulate, lobes ovate to semiorbicular). D. xuanlienensis is also similar to D. purpureobracteatus W.W.Smith, (1912: 153) but differs from it in peduncle glandular-pubescent (vs. glabrous); bracts free (vs. often connate at base); calyx actinomorphic, broadly campanulate, lobes triangular (vs. slightly zygomorphic, tubular campanulate, lobes semiorbicular). Moreover, the new species differs from D. brevipedunculatus and D. purpureobracteatus in distribution, elevation, and flowering time. A detailed morphological and ecological comparison of these three species is presented in Table 1.

Van Thi Thuy Tran, Son Thanh Hoang, Wen-Guang Wang, Xiao-An Lang and Hou-Cheng Xi. 2026. Didymocarpus xuanlienensis, A New Species of Didymocarpus (Gesneriaceae) from Vietnam. PhytoKeys. 275: 73-79. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.275.185766 [21 May 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Oreocharis nanlingensis (Gesneriaceae) • Integrating Morphological and Molecular Evidence Reveals a New Species and Two Synonyms in Oreocharis

 

Oreocharis nanlingensis  X.Z. Shi & Li H. Yang,

in Shi, Sun, Fu et Yang, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.73380

ABSTRACT

The genus Oreocharis is a species-rich group within the family Gesneriaceae and represents an excellent model system for evolutionary studies. However, taxonomic understanding of this genus remains insufficient, resulting in several unresolved issues. In this study, we focus on two species groups within Oreocharis—the O. argyreia group and the O. auricula group—each of which presents distinct taxonomic challenges. To address these, we conducted detailed morphological comparisons and statistical analyses, along with phylogenetic analyses based on dense population-level sampling. Our results support abolishing the variety O. argyreia var. angustifolia within O. argyreia but establishing a new species of O. nanlingensis to accommodate specimens of this variety collected from the broader Nanling mountains region. In addition, our findings suggest that O. auricula var. denticulata should be treated as a synonym of O. magnidens. We provide final taxonomic treatments, amended descriptions, photographs, and a distribution map for the relevant taxa.

Oreocharis nanlingensis sp. nov. 

(A) Habit. (B) Flowers in top view. (C) Flowers in side view. (D) Flowers in front view. (E) Opened flower showing stamens, staminodes, and corolla inside. (F) Not yet dehiscing anthers. (G) Calyx. (H) Pistil. (I) Dehiscing fruit. 

 All Photos were taken from its holotype locality.

Oreocharis nanlingensis X.Z. Shi & Li H. Yang, sp. nov.   

 

Diagnosis Oreocharis nanlingensis is similar to O. crispata, but can be distinguished from the latter by its smooth leaf blade with entire margin (vs. rugose leaf blade with crispate and irregularly dentate margin), longer corolla tube (1.6–1.7 cm vs. ca 1.3 cm), and pistil (1.5–1.6 cm vs. ca 1.1 cm), and bilobed stigma (vs. disc-shaped).

 

Xi-Zuo Shi, Zhi-Xia Sun, Jia-Xin Fu and Li-Hua Yang. 2026. Integrating Morphological and Molecular Evidence Reveals a New Species and Two Synonyms in Oreocharis (Gesneriaceae). Ecology and Evolution. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.73380 [06 April 2026] 

 

Using both population-level phylogenetic analysis and morphological statistics, this study resolved several taxonomic problems within the genus Oreocharis. Our results support abolishing the variety O. argyreia var. angustifolia, establishing a new species O. nanlingensis, and treating O. auricula var. denticulata as a synonym of O. magnidens.

[Botany • 2026] Stauranthera aureoglossa (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India

Stauranthera aureoglossa  

in Kishwan, Thackeray et Page, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70093

ABSTRACT

A new species in genus Stauranthera Benth. is described from Arunachal Pradesh, India. S. aureoglossa sp. nov. is a caulescent herb found in moist and shady streams of mid-elevation forests of Upper Subansiri District. It can be distinguished from the other species in the genus based on a combination of morphological characters such as distinctly 2-lipped, tubular-campanulate, spurless corolla, with yellow, raised papillose patch on the inside of the lower lip of corolla. Color plates of this taxon, along with those of the other two species of Stauranthera reported from India are provided for easy identification.

Keywords: conservation, Eastern Himalaya, Epithemateae, Flora of India, new taxa, Northeast India

Stauranthera aureoglossa sp. nov.

Shivam Kishwan, Tejas U. Thackeray, Navendu V. Page. 2026. Stauranthera aureoglossa, a New Species of Gesneriaceae From Arunachal Pradesh, India. Feddes Repertorium. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70093 [09 April 2026]

  facebook.com/100064866994974/posts/1472543211584565

[Botany • 2026] Napeanthus decurrens (Gesneriaceae: Napeantheae) • Taxonomic notes on Napeanthus in Ecuador: Neotypification of Two Species and A New Species from the eastern Andean slopes

Napeanthus decurrens J.L. Clark, 

in Clark, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.273.189993

Abstract

Ongoing field expeditions in Ecuador and herbarium research have resulted in the discovery of a new species and the stabilization of two names in Napeanthus (Gesneriaceae). Napeanthus robustus Fritsch and Napeanthus ecuadorensis Fritsch were both described from specimens housed at the Berlin herbarium that were subsequently destroyed; therefore, neotypes are designated to stabilize the application of these names. A third taxon, Napeanthus decurrens J.L.Clark, sp. nov., is described as a narrow endemic from the eastern Andean slopes of the Ecuadorian province of Zamora-Chinchipe.

Key words: Andes, biodiversity, Ecuador, Napeantheae, taxonomy

Field images of Napeanthus decurrens J.L. Clark.
 A. Abaxial leaf surface; B. Habit; C. Calyx; D. Front view of flower; E. Rear view of flower. F. Habit;

(A from J.L. Clark et al. 10808; B from J.L. Clark et al. 15074; C–E from J.L. Clark et al. 10808).

Photos by J.L. Clark.

Napeanthus decurrens J.L.Clark, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Similar to Napeanthus loretensis L.E.Skog in its small (< 9 cm long), decurrent leaves, but N. decurrens is distinguished by entire leaf margins and erect inflorescences (vs. serrate leaf margins and prostrate inflorescences in N. loretensis).

Etymology. The specific epithet decurrens refers to the leaf blades that are decurrent along the petiole, giving the leaves a nearly sessile appearance.

 John L. Clark. 2026. Taxonomic notes on Napeanthus (Gesneriaceae) in Ecuador: Neotypification of Two Species and A New Species from the eastern Andean slopes. PhytoKeys. 273: 161-169.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.273.189993 [16 Apr 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Petrocodon dahuaensis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from the Limestone Area of Guangxi, China

Petrocodon dahuaensis  M.L.Mo, Chen Feng & Z.C.Lu,

in Mo, Chang, Wu, Zhang, Lu et Feng, 2026.

 大化石山苣苔  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.181552

Abstract

Petrocodon dahuaensis, a new species from a limestone area of Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to P. asterostriatus but differs in its leaf blade, cordate to subrounded, margin crenate to serrate; bracts, bracteoles, and calyx smaller; corolla purple, base straight to slightly inflated; filaments purple; and style densely glandular-puberulent. Molecular evidence also supports its close relationship with P. asterostriatus. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the provisional conservation status of P. dahuaensis is assessed as Data Deficient (DD).

Key words: Morphology, new taxon, Petrocodon asterostriatus, taxonomy

Petrocodon dahuaensis sp. nov. 

A. Habit; B. Flowering plant; C. Cyme and bracts; D. Opened corolla; E. Lateral view of flower; F. Back view of flower; G. Pistils and calyces; H. Frontal view of flower; I. Stamens; J. Adaxial view of leaf blade; K. Abaxial view of leaf blade; L. Capsules.

Petrocodon dahuaensis M.L.Mo, Chen Feng & Z.C.Lu, sp. nov. 

Chinese name. dà huà shí shān jù tái (大化石山苣苔). 

Diagnostic. The new species is similar to Petrocodon asterostriatus F.Wen, Y.G.Wei & W.C.Chou, but differs by its leaf blades cordate to subrounded, margin crenate or serrate (vs. broadly ovate to subcordate, margin entire), bracts 4–9 mm long (vs. 10–25 mm long), bracteoles ca. 2 mm long (vs. 9–18 mm long), calyx 5–7 mm long (vs. 8–16 mm long), corolla purple (vs. pale purplish-maroon), base straight to slightly inflated (vs. near spherical), filaments purple (vs. white), and style densely glandular-puberulent (vs. densely puberulent).

Ming-Lin Mo, Shi-Li Chang, You-Dong Wu, Yi Zhang, Zhao-Cen Lu and Chen Feng. 2026. Petrocodon dahuaensis (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from the Limestone Area of Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys. 272: 121-132. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.181552 [31 Mar 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Primulina acutiloba (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Northwest Guangxi, China

Primulina acutiloba C.Xiong, J.X.Fu & F.Wen,  

 

in Xiong, Fu, Qin, Pan, Liu et Wen, 2026. 

尖瓣报春苣苔  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.178656 

(All photographed by Chi Xiong).

Abstract

A new species of Gesneriaceae, Primulina acutiloba C.Xiong, J.X.Fu & F.Wen, from the limestone karsts of Northwest Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it resembles Pri. pingguoensis H.S.Ma & B.Pan and Pri. pseudoeburnea (D.Fang & W.T.Wang) Mich. Möller & A. Weber in corolla shape and coloration, particularly in the presence of purple stripes extending from the throat to the lobes. However, it can be readily distinguished by a combination of characters, including the shape of the leaf blades, bracts, and calyx lobes, the length of the peduncle and pistil, and the height of the disc. Currently, only a single population is known from the type locality, comprising approximately 60–80 mature individuals. Following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the species is provisionally assessed as Endangered (EN C2 b).

Key words: Baise, Guangxi, limestone, new taxon, taxonomy

Primulina acutiloba C.Xiong, J.X.Fu & F.Wen, sp. nov.
 A. Flowering plant cultivated in GCCC; B. Abaxial (above) and adaxial (below) sides of leaf blade; C. Cymes (arrow shows bracts); D. Bracts, dissected; E. Side view of flower; F. Ventral view of flower; G. Dorsal view of flower; H. Front view of flower; I. Sepals, dissected; J. Pistil and disc; K. Stigma; L. Disc; M. Opened corolla showing stamens and staminodes; N. Stamens.

(All photographed by Chi Xiong).

Primulina acutiloba C.Xiong, J.X.Fu & F.Wen, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Within Primulina, Pri. acutiloba is readily distinguished by its triangular corolla lobes with prominent stripes. In overall corolla shape, coloration, and the presence of purple stripes extending from the throat to the lobes, it resembles Pri. pingguoensis and Pri. pseudoeburnea (Fig. 3). However, it differs from both species in having peduncle 3–8 cm long (vs. 8–16.5 cm in Pri. pingguoensis and 10–19 cm in Pri. pseudoeburnea), elliptic bracts (vs. linear or linear-lanceolate in Pri. pingguoensis and lanceolate in Pri. pseudoeburnea), corolla 25–28 mm long (vs. ca. 16–20 mm in Pri. pingguoensis and ca. 30 mm in Pri. pseudoeburnea), and pistil 21–24 mm long (vs. ca. 11–15 mm in Pri. pingguoensis and ca. 20 mm in Pri. pseudoeburnea).

Etymology. The specific epithet ‘acutiloba’ is derived from the Latin acutus (meaning ‘acute’) and lobus (meaning ‘lobe’), referring to the characteristically acute apices of the corolla lobes.

Vernacular name. jiān bàn bào chūn jǔ tái (Chinese pronunciation); 

尖瓣报春苣苔 (Chinese name).

 Chi Xiong, Jia-Xin Fu, Qi Qin, Bo Pan, Hong Liu and Fang Wen. 2026. Primulina acutiloba (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from Northwest Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys. 272: 11-20.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.178656 [18 Mar. 2026] 

[Botany • 2026] Raphiocarpus hapii (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from central Vietnam

 

Raphiocarpus hapii K. S. Nguyen, C. W. Lin & Aver., 

 in Nguyen, Lin, Averyanov, Ban, Giang et Bui. 2026.  

turczaninowia.asu.ru 

facebook.com/Darthvaderiana

Abstract

We describe and illustrate a new species, Raphiocarpus hapii, recently discovered in central Vietnam. It resembles R. sinovietnamicus but differs in dwarf habit, 20–30 (rarely 50) cm tall, spreading hirsute stems and leaves, shorter corolla, 1.5–1.8 cm long, with a tubular corolla tube, which is pale greyish-pink to dusky greyish-purple, tinged with maroon externally, and white with maroon to crimson internally, having scattered pilose hairs on the lower corolla mouth, and in shorter capsule, 1.8–2.5 cm. According to the IUCN criteria (2024), the new species may tentatively be assessed as Data Deficient (DD).

Keywords: biodiversity, Central Highlands, Flora of Vietnam, plant diversity, plant endemism, plant taxonomy

Raphiocarpus hapii K. S. Nguyen, C. W. Lin et Aver., sp. nov.  

Diagnosis. The new species differs from the morphologically closest Raphiocarpus sinovietnamicus by the combination of the following morphological characters: stem seldom exceeding 30 cm in height; stems and leaves hispid-hirsute; leaves have 7 pairs of lateral veins; inflorescence bears 2–7 flowers; corolla tubular, 1.5–1.8 cm long with pilose indumentum on the lower part of the mouth; and capsule 1.8–2.5 cm long.

 

Khang S. Nguyen, Che W. Lin, Leonid V. Averyanov, Ninh K. Ban, Vu H. Giang, Van T. Bui. 2026. Raphiocarpus hapii (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from central Vietnam. Turczaninowia. 29(1); 50–56. DOI: 10.14258/turczaninowia.29.1.8 [2026-03-12]

 https://turczaninowia.asu.ru/article/view/19014

 facebook.com/Darthvaderiana/posts/10232223151865057

 

[Botany • 2026] Primulina taishanensis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Guangdong, China

 

Primulina taishanensis F.Wen & Yu Q.Chen, 

in Qian, Xin, Chen, Huang, Bai et Wen, 2026. 

台山报春苣苔  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10358-w

Summary

Primulina taishanensis F.Wen & Yu Q.Chen, a new species of Gesneriaceae, from Taishan County, Guangdong Province, China, is described. It is morphologically similar to P. dryas (Dunn) Mich.Möller & A.Weber in the cuneate leaf base, bract size, purple pubescent peduncle, pistil size and white glandular hairs on the ovary. It is clearly differentiated from that species by its acuminate leaf blade apex (vs obtuse in P. dryas); pedicels 8 – 25 mm long and purple glandular pilose (vs 30 – 50 mm long, densely white villous) and anthers that are reniform and deeply constricted at the middle, c. 2.5 mm long (vs fusiform, c. 4 mm long). A provisional conservation category of Vulnerable [VU D1], according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria is proposed.

Key Words: IUCN, morphology, new taxon, taxonomy.

   

Primulina taishanensis F.Wen & Yu Q.Chen sp. nov. 

Intraspecific flower colour variation in Primulina taishanensis.
Top row, front views; middle row, lateral view; bottom row, lateral view with corollas opened.

Etymology. “taishanensis” is Latinised from the pinyin and the suffix “-ensis” conveys “from the City of Taishan in Guangdong Province”, where the species was found.

Vernacular name. Tái Shān Bào Chūn Jù Tái (Chinese pronunciation); 台山报春苣苔 (Chinese).

Xiao-Mao Qian, Zi-Bing Xin, Yu-Qiang Chen, Guan-Yun Huang, Xin-Xiang Bai and Fang Wen. 2026. Primulina taishanensis (Gesneriaceae), A New Species from Guangdong, China.  Kew Bulletin. DOI: doi.org/10.1007/s12225-025-10358-w [23 February 2026]