[Botany • 2026] Lasianthus sondangii (Rubiaceae) • A New Species with a unique spiciform inflorescence from Central Vietnam

Lasianthus sondangii Bao, Vuong & V.C.Nguyen, 

in Tran, V. C. Nguyen, Luong, Phan-Thi, H. T. Nguyen, Truong et Q. B. Nguyen, 2026. 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2193

Abstract

Lasianthus sondangii, a new species from Lasianthus section Nudiflorae, is described from Khanh Hoa Province, Central Vietnam. It can be distinguished from other Lasianthus species in Vietnam and surrounding countries by having narrowly triangular stipules, spiciform inflorescences with two or three reduced cyme secondary axes, purple flowers, and clavate calyx lobes with revolute margins. A detailed description of the new species, color plates, distribution, habitat and preliminary conservation assessment are provided.

Keyword: Indochina, Khanh Hoa, Lasiantheae, plant conservation, plant diversity, sect. Nudiflorae

Lasianthus sondangii Bao, Vuong & V.C.Nguyen.
A. A flowering and fruiting branch. B. Apical shoot showing young leaves and stipule. C. Inflorescence and infructescence. D. Infructescence (side view) E. Flowers buds (mature (left) and immature (right)). F. Open flower in different views (side view (left) and top view (right)). G. Corolla artificially cut open, showing hairs at the throat and stamens. H. Flower with the corolla removed to show the ovary, calyx, style, and stigma (left) and longitudinal section that shows the calyx lobes, and the ovule (right). I. Mature fruit (left) and the cross section of fruit shows pyrenes and albumen of seeds (right).

Drawn by Phan Thi Thanh Nha from type QB137.

Lasianthus sondangii Bao, Vuong & V.C.Nguyen.
A. Habit and habitat. B. A flowering and fruiting branch. C. Apical shoot showing young leaves and stipule. D. Stipule. E. Leaves (adaxial surface (left) and abaxial surface (right)). F. Infructescence. G. Inflorescences. H. Inflorescence bearing open flowers.

(A, B, E–H by Nguyen Van Canh; C, D by Nguyen Quoc Bao from type QB137).

Lasianthus sondangii Bao, Vuong & V.C.Nguyen, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: The new species is distinct from other Lasianthus species in Vietnam and Indo-China by its spiciform, sympodial, reduced-cymose inflorescence; purple flowers (including calyx), calyx lobes obovate with revolute margins.

Thi Thuy Nhan Tran, Van Canh Nguyen, Van Dung Luong, Thanh Nha Phan-Thi, Hoa Thi Nguyen, Ba Vuong Truong and Quoc Bao Nguyen. 2026. Lasianthus sondangii (Rubiaceae, Lasianthus section Nudiflorae), A New Species with a unique spiciform inflorescence from Central Vietnam. Taiwania. 71(3); 488 - 494. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.488 [26 May 2026] 

 https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2193

[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] Aspidistra huashuishanensis (Asparagaceae) • A New Species from Guangdong, China

Aspidistra huashuishanensis C.R. Lin, Y.H. Tong & Y.Q. Li, 

in Tong, Chen, Huang, Li, Wan et Lin, 2026.

滑水山蜘蛛抱蛋  ||  taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2182

Abstract

Aspidistra huashuishanensis, a new species from Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to A. daqingshanensis in shape and color of leaves and flowers, but can be distinguished by urceolate perianth tube, perianth lobes suberect or slightly recurved, purplish red, ovate-triangular, acuminate or obtuse at apex, and upper surface of stigma with dense small papillae. The new species is currently only known from the type locality in northern Guangdong. Detailed colour plates and data on morphology, ecology, phenology and distribution of the new species are also provided.

Keyword: Aspidistra daqingshanensis, Aspidistra triradiata, Huashuishan City-level Nature Reserve, new taxon

Aspidistra huashuishanensis sp. nov.
 A. Habit; B. Flowers; C. Flowering plant; D-E. Flower side view; F. Fruit; G. Flower longitudinally dissected showing stamens and pistil (8-merous); H. Flower longitudinally dissected showing stamens and pistil (6- merous); I. Pistil; J. Stigma top view (8-merous); K. Stigma top view (6-merous); L. Stigma bottom view (6-merous).

Aspidistra huashuishanensis C.R. Lin, Y.H. Tong & Y.Q. Li, sp. nov. 

滑水山蜘蛛抱蛋

Diagnosis: The new species is similar to A. daqingshanensis Y.L. Pan & C.R. Lin in shape and color of leaves and flowers, but can be distinguished by urceolate perianth tube, perianth lobes suberect or slightly recurved, purplish red, ovate-triangular, acuminate or obtuse at apex, and upper surface of stigma with dense small papillae. 

Yi-Hua Tong, Shu-Yan Chen, Hai-Jian Huang, Yuan-Qiu Li, Xin-Yu Wan and Chun-Rui Lin. 2026. Aspidistra huashuishanensis (Asparagaceae), A New Species from Guangdong, China. Taiwania. 71(2); 390 - 393. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.390 [20 April 2026] 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2182

[Botany • 2026] Lobelia janardhananii (Lobeliaceae) • A New Species from the Western Ghats of India

 

Lobelia janardhananii K.M.P.Kumar & Sunil, 

in Sunil, Prabhukumar, Sivadas, Sanilkumar et Robi, 2026.

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2165 

Abstract

A new species of Lobelia, L. janardhananii K.M.P.Kumar & Sunil is described from Kerala, India. It resembles Lobelia heyneana Schult. in herbaceous habit and axillary solitary flowers but differs from the latter by leaf shape, texture, flower length, compressed or ancipitous pedicel, characters of calyx lobe, the colour of corolla tube and lobe, size and colour of stamens, stylar length and seeds. A detailed description and photographs are provided for the identification of the species.

Keyword: Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala, Lobelia heyneana, Lobelia janardhananii, perennial, taxonomy

Lobelia janardhananii sp. nov.
 A–C. Flowering shoot, D. C.S. of stem, E. Leaf adaxial side, F. Leaf abaxial side.

Lobelia janardhananii sp. nov.
A. Flower, B. Pedicel with bracteoles, C. Calyx, D. Calyx lobe, E. Corolla split open, F. Staminal column with anthers, G. Anthers, H. Style and stigma, H1. Stigma closeup view, I. Immature capsule, J. Seeds.

Lobelia janardhananii K.M.P.Kumar & Sunil, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Lobelia janardhananii sp. nov. is morphologically similar to L. heyneana, but differs in the rhomboid, elliptic or ovate leaves, 1.5–4 × 0.4–2 cm, attenuate base (vs. elliptic to sub-orbicular, 0.6–0.8 × 0.4– 0.8 cm; base truncate and decurrent); flowers 14–17 mm long (vs. 8.7–9.2 mm long); pedicel compressed or ancipitous, bibracteolate near middle (vs. trigonous, bracteoles absent); sepals toothed, hirsute abaxially (vs. entire, glabrous on both sides); corolla tube blue (vs. tube white); upper lip 3–4 mm long, whitish-blue; lower lip bright blue (vs. upper lip white; lower lip pale violet); filament of stamens 4.5–5 mm long, purplish (vs. 1.3–1.4 mm long, light green).  

Etymology: The specific epithet is to honour the contributions of Sri. N.K. Janardhanan, Gardner, Herb Garden, Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal, for his 45 years of dedicated service towards the conservation of threatened plants, especially medicinal plants. 

Chandrasseril Narayanan Sunil, Konickal Mambetta Prabhukumar, Deepu Sivadas, Malayil Gopalan Sanilkumar and Aloor Jose Robi. 2026. A New Species of Lobelia (Lobeliaceae) from the Western Ghats of India. Taiwania. 71(2); 243-246 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.243 [2026 March 21] 

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2165

 

[Botany • 2026] Rhododendron yombuwurii (Ericaceae, subgen. Vireya) • A New orange-flowered Species from Central Sulawesi, Indonesia

  

Rhododendron yombuwurii Hutabarat, Bandjolu & Zulfadli,  

in Hutabarat, Zulfadli, Bandjolu, Basrul, Hariri, Senatama et Larekeng, 2026.

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2170  

Abstract

A new species of Rhododendron subgenus Vireya from Central Sulawesi, Rhododendron yombuwurii, is described. The species is known from material originating from the Tokorondo Range, northwest of Lake Poso, and is currently cultivated at a lower elevation near Saluopa Waterfall, where it grows epiphytically and produces small, bright orange flowers. We provide a detailed morphological description, comparative microscopic observations, notes on distribution, habitat and ecology, and a preliminary conservation assessment. Phylogenetic analyses based on the nuclear ribosomal ITS region support the placement of the species within subgenus Vireya and its distinction from morphologically similar taxa.

Keyword: Flora, Malesia, Mountain flora, Poso, Rhododendron celebicum, Schistanthe, Tokorondo, Wallacea

A. Rhododendron yombuwurii thriving and flowering as an epiphyte beneath the canopy of a small tree in Tentena, Central Sulawesi; B. The fresh material of the type specimen PWH1635; C. Flower bud of R. yombuwurii.

(Photographed by P.W.K. Hutabarat)

Morphology of Rhododendron yombuwurii Hutabarat, Bandjolu & Zulfadli, sp. nov.
 A. flowering stem; B. Semi–erect inflorescence; C. Flower bud; D. Glabrescent adaxial leaf; E. Scaly petiole; F. Scaly abaxial leaf; G. Scales on abaxial leaf; H. Narrow funnel–shaped corolla; I. Corolla lobes and stamen position; J. Corolla (inside); K. Androecium and gynoecium; L. Stamen; M. Gynoecium; N. Immature fruit; O. Laxly scaly ovary

 (Photographed by Zulfadli)

Rhododendron yombuwurii Hutabarat, Bandjolu & Zulfadli, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Rhododendron yombuwurii is most closely allied to R. celebicum (Blume) DC. (de Candolle, 1839), and shows affinity to R. impressopunctatum J.J.Sm. (Smith, 1932), and R. vidalii subsp. brachystemon Argent (Argent, 2003). It differs from R. celebicum by its raised midrib and lateral veins (vs. slightly impressed), semi-erect to horizontal inflorescences (vs. pendulous), glabrous calyx externally (vs. densely scaly), and much smaller orange corolla, 17–22 × 12–16 mm (vs. 35–46 × 20–25 mm, pink to red). From R. impressopunctatum it differs in having smaller leaves, fewer-flowered inflorescences, smaller orange corollas, and filaments clustered at the corolla mouth rather than exserted. The species further differs from R. vidalii subsp. brachystemon by its scaly young twigs becoming glabrescent, longer leaves with raised veins, glabrous calyx externally, smaller orange corolla, and a sparsely scaly to nearly glabrescent ovary. Additional distinguishing characters are summarized in Table 1. ...

A. Type locality of Rhododendron yombuwurii in the Tokorondo Range, Poso Regency, Central Sulawesi. The red dot marks Saluopa Waterfall, where the type specimen was collected as a cultivated plant, while the yellow circle indicates Petirorano, the presumed original source of the species.
B. Saluopa Waterfall, a lower montane site at 560 m elevation, characterized by a cool and humid climate.

Prima Wahyu Kusuma Hutabarat, Zulfadli, Kurniawan Palindondaya Bandjolu, Basrul, Muhammad Rifqi Hariri, Andhika Senatama and Siti Halimah Larekeng. 2026. Rhododendron yombuwurii (Ericaceae), A New orange-flowered Species of subgenus Vireya from Central Sulawesi, Indonesia.  Taiwania. 71(2); 277-283 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.277 [2026 March 28] 

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2170  

[Botany • 2026] Impatiens pfutserensis (Balsaminaceae) • A New Species from Nagaland, India

Impatiens pfutserensis  S.Singh, B.Singh & M.Bhuyan,

in S.Singh, B.Singh, Bhuyan et Phukan, 2026. 

 taiwania.NTU.edu.tw/abstract/2167

Abstract 

A new species of Balsam, Impatiens pfutserensis S.Singh, B.Singh & M.Bhuyan, belonging to Impatiens sect. Racemosae Hook.f. & Thomson, is described herein from the Phek District of Nagaland, India. The species is distinguished by a unique combination of diagnostic characters: unwinged stems lacking swollen nodes, forward-directed marginal leaf teeth, an eight-flowered inflorescence, and pink flowers with white patches. It is further characterized by a long spur and a ridged capsule. While morphologically similar to I. stenantha Hook.f. and I. prainii Hook.f., I. pfutserensis differs from both in several key traits. Inhabiting subtropical montane forest ecosystems, the species is presented here with detailed data on its morphology, distribution, phenology, and conservation status, alongside photographic documentation to facilitate accurate identification.

Keyword: Balsaminaceae, biodiversity hotspot, eastern Himalaya, Impatiens pfutserensis, Indo-Burma, Nagaland, new taxon

Impatiens pfutserensis:
 A. natural habit, B. single leaf, C. different parts of a complete flower, D. inflorescence E. close look of complete flower, F. capsule.

Impatiens pfutserensis S.Singh, B.Singh & M.Bhuyan, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: The new species is morphologically similar to Impatiens stenantha Hook.f. (Table 1), but can be distinguished with the later by its plant habit (succulent vs. non-succulent), plant height (15–30 cm tall vs. 40–90 cm tall, node (not swollen vs. swollen), stem (not winged vs. winged), lateral veins (4–6 pairs vs. 7–11 pairs), inflorescence (8- flowered vs. 3–4 flowered); flower colour (pink with white patches vs. yellow with dark red spots), longer spur (2.5–2.8 cm vs. 1.7–2.2 cm), capsule (clavate to subfusiform vs. linear). The new species is also resembling I. prainii Hook.f., and varies by its stem (unbranched, hollow, translucentgreen to reddish with adventitious roots vs. branched, solid), leaves (without stipule vs. distinct glandular stipule), inflorescence (8-flowered vs. 2 or 3-flowered), lower sepal (with long curved spur vs. short straight spur), and capsule (clavate vs. linear).

Sumit Singh, Bikarma Singh, Mantu Bhuyan and Tridip Phukan. 2026. A New Species of Impatiens from Nagaland, India. Taiwania. 71(2); 263-267. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.263 [25 March 2026] 

 taiwania.NTU.edu.tw/abstract/2167

[Botany • 2026] Begonia mizoramensis (Begoniaceae, sect. Platycentrum) • A New dioecious Species from Mizoram, Northeast India

 

Begonia mizoramensis Vanlalawmpuia, Khomdram & Yumkham,  

in Sailo, Khomdram, Yumkham, Lalthantluanga et Khiangte, 2026. 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw

Abstract

Begonia mizoramensis (Begoniaceae) under Begonia sect. Platycentrum (Klotzsch) A.DC. is described as a new species from Mizoram, Northeast India. It shares similarities in habit, leaf morphology and inflorescence with Begonia longifolia Blume and Begonia acetosella Craib, but differs in several characters, including longer internode, anthers with dehiscence extending beyond half their length, shorter pedicel in pistillate flower and a puberulent ovary with unequal wings. Taxonomic notes and pollen micromorphology are presented to confirm its novelty and sectional placement. Based on the available data, the newly discovered species has been provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) under the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Keyword: Begonia acetosella, Begonia longifolia, Begonia mizoramensis, Indo-Burma Hotspot, Mizoram, Platycentrum

Begonia mizoramensis Vanlalawmpuia, Khomdram & Yumkham sp. nov.
A. Male flowering branch and rhizome. B. Stem base and rhizome; C. Internodes; D. Stipule, E. Leaves (adaxial), F. Leaves (abaxial); G. Staminate flower; H. Male tepals. I. Stamen. J. Pistillate flower. K. Female tepals. L–M. Frontal (L) and side (M) view of ovary and stigma. N. Immature fruit. O. Cross section of ovary.

Begonia mizoramensis Vanlalawmpuia, Khomdram & Yumkham sp. nov.
 A–B. Habit (A. inset rhizome). C–D. Flowering twigs of male flowers (bee pollination in D). E. Solitary female flower, F. Flowering twig (abaxial surface). G. Portion of leaf (adaxial surface). H. Portion of leaf base with petiole (abaxial surface). I. Bracts. J. Stipules. K–M. Male Flowers. N. Androecium. O. Stamen showing dehiscence line.

Begonia mizoramensis Vanlalawmpuia, Khomdram & Yumkham, sp. nov.  

 Section Platycentrum 

Diagnosis: Begonia mizoramensis resembles B. longifolia and B. acetosella in habit, leaf morphology and inflorescence but differs by anthers with dehiscence extending beyond half their length, shorter pedicel in pistillate flower (3 mm) and puberulent ovary with unequal wings. B. mizoramensis differs from B. longifolia in sexuality (dioecious vs. monoecious), pedicel in staminate flowers (7–11 mm vs. 25–30 mm) and ovary (puberulent, not inflated vs. glabrous, slightly crested, inflated). It also differs from B. acetosella in peduncle (1– 5.5 mm long, glabrous vs. 2–10 mm long, puberulous), tepal number in pistillate flower (6 vs. 4) and in ovary (3- loculed vs. 4-loculed). 

 

 

Vanlalawmpuia Sailo, Sandhyarani Devi Khomdram, Sanatombi Devi Yumkham, Renthlei Lalthantluanga and Laldinliana Khiangte. 2026. Begonia mizoramensis (Begoniaceae, section Platycentrum), A New dioecious Species from Mizoram, Northeast India.  Taiwania. 71(2); 213-220. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.213 [17 March 2026] 

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2161

[Botany • 2026] Homalomena bungamerah (Araceae: Philodendreae) • A New Species from Northern Sumatra, Indonesia

 Homalomena bungamerah Mustaqim, A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri,

in Mustaqim, Irsyam, Pratama, Surbakti et Hariri. 2026. 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2160 

Abstract

A new litophytic species of Homalomena from Sumatra, Homalomena bungamerah, is described. The new species is unique in having a plicate verrucose upper leaf surface combined with the absence of interpistillar staminodes. Owing to the ongoing threats and small population, H. bungamerah is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR B2 ab(iii,v)). Morphological descriptions, photographs, and notes are given.

Keyword: aroids, Homalomena asperifolia, Homalomena mobula, Homalomena scutata, herbs, litophyte, west Malesia

Morphology of Homalomena bungamerah Mustaqim, A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov.
 A. Living plant. B. Leaf, adaxial. C. Leaf, abaxial. D. Leaf, adaxial texture. E. Leaf, close up of abaxial. F. Close-up of petiole ribs. G. Synflorescence showing spathe which is nodding at anthesis. H. Synflorescence. I. Inflorescence, front view. J. Inflorescence, lateral view. K. Spadix with spathe removed. L. Female spadix zone. M. Male spadix zone.

Photographs by Wendy A. Mustaqim.

Homalomena bungamerah Mustaqim, A.S.D.Irsyam & M.R.Hariri, sp. nov. 

 Diagnosis: This species is unique in having large and plicate leaves, a spathe that nodding at anthesis, and pistillate flowers without an interpistillar staminode. The most morphologically similar species is H. mobula P.C.Boyce 1/2), the larger leaf lamina (16.5–25.8 × 7.7–14.6 cm vs. 7.5–12 × 2.5–6 cm), and the absence of interpistillar staminodes. 

 

Etymology: The specific epithet “bunga merah” is derived from the Malay language, reflecting the inflorescence (“bunga”) with red (“merah”) peduncle and spathe. Malay is the indigenous language in Langkat Regency, where the type material was collected.  

Wendy A. Mustaqim, Arifin S.D. Irsyam, Muhammad A. Pratama, Irwansyah Surbakti and Muhammad R. Hariri. 2026. Homalomena bungamerah (Araceae), A New Species from Northern Sumatra, Indonesia. Taiwania. 71(2); 209-212 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.209 [16 March 2026]

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2160

[Botany • 2026] Curcuma fibrifera (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from Vietnam

Curcuma fibrifera Boonma, D.D.Nguyen, P.Saensouk & Saensouk, 

in P. Saensouk, S. Saensouk, Tuan, Sy, Taesuk, Nguyen, Phimpha et Boonma, 2026.  

Taiwania. 71(1);  

Nghệ Sợi Trắng  ||  taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2149 

Abstract

Knowledge of the diversity of Curcuma species in mainland Southeast Asia remains incomplete, and Vietnam is no exception. To address this gap, we conducted extensive field surveys throughout the country to document native taxa and clarify previously uncertain records. As a result of these efforts, we described and illustrated a new species, Curcuma fibrifera Boonma, D.D.Nguyen, Saensouk & P.Saensouk. In addition, we confirm the presence of three further species, C. comosa Roxb., C. petiolata Roxb., and C. phrayawan Boonma & Saensouk, in Vietnam for the first time, and we correct the prior misidentifications. To complement the taxonomic findings, we applied species distribution modeling to evaluate both current and future suitable habitats for these taxa under low- and high-emission climate scenarios. The inclusion of these species raises the total number of Curcuma subgenus Curcuma in Vietnam to 16, though actual diversity may still be underestimated. Full taxonomic accounts are provided for the new species and newly verified records, covering morphological descriptions, distribution, habitat preferences, phenology, taxonomic affinities, traditional uses, and conservation status. This study contributes a more comprehensive account of Curcuma diversity in Vietnam, supports conservation planning, and identifies priorities for further taxonomic and ecological investigations.

Keyword: Conservation, Curcuma comosa, Curcuma fibrifera, Curcuma petiolate, Curcuma phrayawan, Indochina, Zingibereae

Curcuma fibrifera Boonma, D.D.Nguyen, P.Saensouk & Saensouk.
 A. Front view of flower. B. Side view of anther with floral tube. C. Front view of anther with dissected floral tube to show the epigynous glands. D. Dorsal corolla lobe E. Lateral corolla lobes. F. Lateral staminodes. G. Labellum. H. Dissected calyx. I. Side view of flower. J. Fertile bract. K. Habit. L. Cincinnus with flower and young buds. Photos by Thawatphong Boonma.

Curcuma fibrifera Boonma, D.D.Nguyen, P.Saensouk & Saensouk.
A. Dissection of branches rhizome, and fibrous threads visible when broken apart of branches rhizome. B. Habits. C. Semi-top view of inflorescences. D. Side view of inflorescence with flowers. E. Dorsal corolla lobe. F. Lateral corolla lobes. G. Cincinnus with flower and young buds. H. Side view of flower. I. Lateral staminodes. J. Labellum. K. Side view of anther with floral tube. L. Front view of anther with dissected floral tube to show the epigynous glands. M. Front view of flower.

Photos by Thawatphong Boonma.

Curcuma fibrifera Boonma, D.D.Nguyen, P.Saensouk & Saensouk, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Curcuma fibrifera is similar to C. wanenlueanga Saensouk, Thomudtha & Boonma (Saensouk et al., 2021c, 2025b) in having terminal inflorescences, coma bracts, epigynous glands, spurred anthers, and flowers of the gullet type, but differs in having rhizomes ovoid to subglobose, 3–4 × 3–4 cm, ivory to cream (vs. ovoid, 5–9 × 3–5 cm, yellow); branches rhizome internal ivory with cream core, fibrous threads visible when broken (vs. yellow with darker yellow core, no fibrous threads when broken); leafy shoot 60–85 cm tall (vs. 100–150 cm); leaf sheaths 15–32 cm long (vs. 10–60 cm); petiole 5–13 cm long, green (vs. 15– 35 cm long, green with reddish tinge); lamina lanceolate to elliptic, 28–45 × 8–14 cm, base cuneate to rounded, midrib green (vs. narrowly lanceolate, 50–70 × 15–18 cm, base attenuate, midrib reddish-purple, fading with age); peduncle 20–24 cm long (vs. 30–40 cm); lateral staminodes asymmetrical ovate, apex obtuse to acute, 1.4–1.6 × 1.0 cm (vs. irregularly obovate, apex rounded, 1.3–1.4 × 0.7–0.8 cm); filament 3.2–3.5 mm long (vs. ca. 4 mm); anther spurs narrowly conical, ca. 1.5 mm, curved inward (vs. ca. 4 mm, pointing downward); and ovary oblate, 3–4 × 2 mm (vs. subglobose, ca. 3 × 3 mm).

Etymology: The specific epithet “fibrifera” is derived from the Latin words fibra meaning “fiber” and fero, ferre meaning “to bear, to produce, to carry.” Thus, fibrifera means “bearing fibers” or “producing fibers,” in reference to the characteristic fibrous threads that appear when the branches rhizome is broken, resembling the breaking of the petioles of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.

Piyaporn Saensouk, Surapon Saensouk, Nguyen Hoang Tuan, Vo Van Sy, Nonthiwat Taesuk, Danh Duc Nguyen, Suriya Phimpha and Thawatphong Boonma. 2026. A New Species and three new records of Curcuma subgenus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae) for Vietnam with notes on their traditional utilization and conservation status.  Taiwania. 71(1); 83-100 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.83 [2026 January 12]

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2149 

[Botany • 2026] Lysimachia longiracemosa (Primulaceae: Lysimachieae) • A New frutescent herb from Yunnan, China

Lysimachia longiracemosa  Y.H.Tan & Z.X.Ma,

in Ma, Quan et Tan. 2026. 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2141

Abstract

Lysimachia longiracemosa, a new species of Primulaceae, is described from the margin of highland subtropical broad-leaved forests in southeastern Yunnan, China. Based on morphological evidence, the new species is placed in Lysimachia subgenus Idiophyton and diagnosed against its closest congener, L. nutantiflora. A revised key is also provided to distinguish L. longiracemosa from the related frutescent species with racemose inflorescences of the Lysimachia subgenus Idiophyton.

Keyword: Flora of China, Linnean, Lysimachia nutantiflora, Lysimachia subgenus Idiophyton, Yunnan

Habit of Lysimachia longiracemosa.
 A-B. Plant in the habitat, showing an erect subshrub habit. C. Plant with horizontally extending inflorescence.

A is vouched by Z.X.Ma 2466, and B-C are vouched by the type gathering Z.X.Ma 2408. 

Photographs: Z.X. Ma.

Inflorescence and flower of Lysimachia longiracemosa.
A-D. Racemes from multiple individuals were compared, noting their horizontally extending axis with pendulous flowers, which superficially resembles to a helicoid cymose inflorescence.
E-G. Flowers from different views. H. Flower dissected, note half of the calyx and corolla are artificially removed, displaying the robust anthers with minute filaments. I. Flower dissected, showing the glabrous pistil.

All images are vouched by the type gathering Z.X.Ma 2408. Photographs: Z.X. Ma.

Lysimachia longiracemosa Y.H.Tan & Z.X.Ma, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Lysimachia longiracemosa is morphologically similar to L. nutantiflora, but differs in having unwinged stems (vs winged stems), basally branched racemes that often develop the lowest branch into a paniculate unit and extend horizontally, smaller lanceolate bracts with the lowest 0.2–0.4 × 1.0–1.8 cm that abruptly reduce upward to nearly indistinct narrowly lanceolate to subulate bracts ca. 0.4 × 0.2 mm (vs. leaflike, elliptic to lanceolate, lowest bracts ca. 2.8 × 1.5 cm, gradually reduced upward to ca. 4 × 1.5 mm), and calyx medium green (vs. dark purple). 

 

Zhengxu Ma, Dongli Quan and Yun-Hong Tan. 2026. Lysimachia longiracemosa (Primulaceae: Lysimachieae), A New frutescent herb from Yunnan, China. Taiwania. 71(1); 32-36 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.32 [2026 January 04] 

https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2141

[Botany • 2024] Lysionotus cangyuanensis (Gesneriaceae) • A New Species from Yunnan, China

 

Lysionotus cangyuanensis C. Liu, W.G. Wang & H.C. Xi, 

in Xi, Wang, Ma, Shi, Shen et Liu, 2024. 

沧源吊石苣苔 ||   taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2021 

Abstract 

Lysionotus cangyuanensis, a new species from Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. This new species morphologically resembles L. sulphureoides and L. coccinus, but can be distinguished by its leaf blade size, bracts shape, corolla size and throat markings, and anthers shape. Detailed description is provided. 

Keyword: Cangyuan County, China, Lysionotus coccinus, Lysionotus sulphureoides, new taxon, taxonomy, Yunnan

Habitat and morphology of Lysionotus cangyuanensis.
A. Habitat; B. Flowering plant; C. Leaf surface, adaxial and abaxial; D–F. Different views of flower; G. Infructescence, showing immature capsules; H–J. Dissected corolla, showing stamens and throat characters; K. Pistil, disc and calyx.

(Photos. A, C, F, by W.G. Wang; B, D–E, G–K, by C. Liu)

 Lysionotus cangyuanensis C. Liu, W.G. Wang & H.C. Xi, sp. nov. 

沧源吊石苣苔

Diagnosis: The new species differs from the most similar species Lysionotus sulphureoides in leaf blade up to 13 cm long, lateral veins 4–7 pairs, bracts elliptical to oblong, corolla 3.5–4 cm long, with 15 purple longitudinal lines in throat and 1 purple patch at each junction of the upper and lower lips, and anthers cordate.

Etymology: The specific epithet “cangyuan” refers to the type locality in Cangyuan County, Yunnan Province, China. 

Chinese name is proposed here as “沧源吊石苣苔” (沧源-refer to Cangyuan, 吊石苣苔-refer to Lysionotus).

Hou-Cheng Xi, Wen-Guang Wang, Xing-Da Ma, Ji-Pu Shi, Jian-Yong Shen and Cheng Liu. 2024. Lysionotus cangyuanensis, A New Species of Lysionotus (Gesneriaceae) from Yunnan, China. Taiwania. 69(4); 445-448. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2024.69.445 [01 October 2024] taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2021

[Botany • 2026] Begonia ilinensis (Begoniaceae, sect. Baryandra) • New Begonia Species from Ilin Island, Occidental Mindoro Province, Philippines and insights to the coastal species of Begonia sect. Baryandra

Begonia ilinensis Bucay, Tandang & M.A.Reyes, 

in Bucay, Tandang, Reyes, Mundo et Chung, 2026. 

Taiwania. 71(1); 

taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2143 

Abstract

Begonia ilinensis is a newly described species of Begonia sect. Baryandra, first found in the coastal areas of Ilin Island, off the southwestern coasts of Mindoro Island in the Philippines. The species resides in exposed to semi-exposed limestone areas on the coast. The species is notable for its dormancy during the dry months, where it is limited to its minute rhizomes. It only starts growing its foliage and flowers during the wet season of June to November. Morphologically, the species is relatively small compared to most Baryandra species in the Philippines, but resembles Begonia luzonensis, a resident of nearby Luzon Island, mainly by its leaf margins. However, the species is much smaller compared to B. luzonensis specifically in terms of lamina, inflorescences, and capsules, and it lacks the characteristic rusty villous indumentum of B. luzonensis on its leaves, peduncles, and petioles. We also documented and mapped other Begonia sect. Baryandra that we have found thriving on the same habitat as B. ilinensis on other portions of the Philippines to shed further insights on the ecology of these coastal Begonias based on their habitat preferences.

Keyword: archipelago, Begonia ilinensis, Begonia luzonensis, biogeography, karst ecosystems, species radiation

Begonia ilinensis Bucay, Tandang & M.A.Reyes.
A. Habitat showing limestone formations near the coast; B. Habit; C. Individual state recovering from dormancy stage, showing young leaves; D. petioles; E. stipules; F. Young leaves; G-H. leaves abaxial and adaxial side; I. Inflorescences; J. Male flowers and some young female flowers; K. Ovary; L. Female flower.

Begonia ilinensis Bucay, Tandang & M.A.Reyes.
A. Habit; B. Pistillate flower showing the ovary; C. Pistillate flower showing the stigmas; D. Ovary lateral view; E. Staminate flower; F. Staminate flower with the ventral view of androecium; G. Fresh capsules ventral view and cross-section; and H. stipules.

Begonia ilinensis Bucay, Tandang & M.A.Reyes, sp. nov. 

§ Baryandra 

Diagnosis: The plant is observed to be most similar to B. luzonensis, particularly on leaf margins; both species of which may exhibit dentate leaves. However, B. luzonensis foliage is glabrous on both sides (vs. densely villous). Its peduncles are also glabrous (vs. longer villous), and the petioles are glabrescent (vs. sparsely villous). B. ilinensis is also significantly smaller than the more robust B. luzonensis and to most Begonia sect. Baryandra species. To scale, the range of lamina dimension of B. ilinensis is only at 4–6 × 2–5 cm (vs. 12–16 × 7–10 cm in B. luzonensis) and its capsules are very minute with lengths of 1.1–1.2 cm (vs. 2–2.5 cm). B. ilinensis also has more obtuse base on abaxial wing on the ovaries compared to a more truncated and extended abaxial wing of B. luzonensis.

Mark Angelo C. Bucay, Danilo N. Tandang, Mikko Angelo G. Reyes, Neil Anthony A. Del Mundo, Kuo-Fang Chung. 2026. New Begonia Species from Ilin Island, Occidental Mindoro Province, Philippines and insights to the coastal species of Begonia sect. Baryandra.  Taiwania. 71(1); 42-48 DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.42 [2026 January 06] https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2143