[Botany • 2026] Beaumontia laotica (Apocynaceae) • A New Species from central Laos

 

Beaumontia laotica X.D. Ma, H.C. Xi, S. Lorphengsy & J.Y. Shen, 

in Ma, Xi, Lorphengsy et Shen, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0130 

Abstract

Beaumontia laotica X.D. Ma, H.C. Xi, S. Lorphengsy & J.Y. Shen (Apocynaceae) is described as a new species from Bolikhamxai Province, Laos. It closely resembles B. grandiflora, B. murtonii and B. jerdoniana, but differs from them by several features of the leaves, sepals and corolla, and by flowering in November. A full taxonomic description, diagnostic illustration and formal IUCN conservation assessment are presented for the new species. An identification key to all species of Beaumontia is provided.

Beaumontia laotica (from the holotype).
 — A: Branch. — B: Longitudinal section of flower. — C: Style-head and anther, side view. — D: Anther, adaxial view. — E: Anther, abaxial view. — F: Ovary, side view.

Beaumontia laotica (A and B photographed at type locality, 11 November 2025; C–P from the holotype).
— A: Natural habitat. — B: Habit. — C: Branch. — D: Young stem. — E: Leaf, adaxial view. — F: Leaf, abaxial view. — G: Adaxial leaf surface. — H: Abaxial leaf surface. — I: Inflorescence. — J: Bracts, adaxial views. — K: Sepals, adaxial views. — L: Flower, front view. — M: Longitudinal section of corolla showing inner surface and stamens. — N: Pedicel and pistil, side view. — O: Disc and ovary, front view. — P: Ovary, side view.

Beaumontia laotica X.D. Ma, H.C. Xi, S. Lorphengsy & J.Y. Shen, sp. nova

Diagnosis. Beaumontia laotica differs from B. grandiflora, B. murtonii and B. jerdoniana by its lanceolate or narrowly obovate (vs. elliptic or obovate) leaf blade; persistent (vs. deciduous) bracts; glabrous (vs. pubescent) sepals; and glabrous (vs. pubescent or puberulent) corolla tube, lower portion ca. 7.4 cm long (vs. 1.5–2.5 cm long), upper portion abruptly expanding to trumpet-shaped, ca. 2 cm long (vs. obconical or campanulate, 6.5–11 cm long). 

Xing-Da Ma, Hou-Cheng Xi, Sengvilay Lorphengsy and Jian-Yong Shen. 2026. Beaumontia laotica (Apocynaceae), A New Species from central Laos. Annales Botanici Fennici. 63(1), 233-237. DOI: doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0130  (11 September 2026) 

[Botany • 2025] Anisomeles tamilnadense (Lamiaceae) • A New Species from Tamil Nadu, India

 

 Anisomeles tamilnadense  Ramasubbu & Bechu 

in Bechu, Ramasubbu, Spurgeon, Venkatesh et Kalaiselvan, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.711.2.10 

 Researchgate.net/publication/393979625

 

Abstract

A new species of Lamiaceae, Anisomeles tamilnadense, is described from Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, India. This species is closely related to A. indica and A. malabarica. However, several features differ, including the ovate-lanceolate and narrowly crenate leaf margin, coloured spathulate bracts, coloured calyx, <100 banded unpigmented corolla hairs and larger stigma lobes. This distinctive combination of traits allows to describe a new species within the genus, contributing to the better knowledge of the flora of the Indian subcontinent.

Eudicots, Anisomeles indica, Anisomeles malabarica, Lamiales, morphology, taxonomy

 Anisomeles tamilnadense:
 a) adult shrub at flowering; b) inflorescence twig; c) indumentum in stem; f) leaf morphology; g) leaf apex; h) leaf margin; A. malabarica: d) leaf morphology; i) leaf margin; A. indica: e) leaf morphology; j) leaf margin

Anisomeles tamilnadense Ramasubbu & Bechu sp. nov.

PUNNEN ABRAHAM BECHU, RAJU RAMASUBBU, EDWIN KIRUBAI DASS SPURGEON, PALANIVEL VENKATESH and KARUPPASAMY KALAISELVAN. 2026. Anisomeles tamilnadense (Lamiaceae), A New Species from Tamil Nadu, India.  Phytotaxa. 711(2); 202-208. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.711.2.10 [2025-07-24]

 Researchgate.net/publication/393979625_Anisomeles_tamilnadense_a_new_species_from_Tamil_Nadu_India

academia.edu/164908527/Anisomeles_tamilnadense_a_new_species_from_Tamil_Nadu_India

[Botany • 2026] Saraca laotica (Malvaceae) • A New Species from Laos

  

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad.,

in Tagane, Phengmala, Kongxaisavath, Sengthong, Yamamoto, Phonepaseuth, Pham, Dang et Souladeth, 2026. 

ຄໍາລາວ  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.749.1.1 

 

Abstract

A new species of Saraca (Fabaceae-Detarioideae), S. laotica, is described and illustrated from Laos. It is characterized by leaflets with (9–)11–20 pairs of secondary veins, relatively larger, persistent and showy bracts of 1.4–3.3 × 0.6–0.9 cm, calyx tube of 27–36 mm, 4 stamens, anthers 1.9 mm long, by which combination, it is clearly distinguished from previously known species in the genus. Information on its habitat, phenology, vernacular name, and preliminary conservation assessment are also provided.

Detarioideae, endemic, Fabales, Leguminosae, limestones, plant taxonomy, Eudicots

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad.
A. Flowering branch; B & C. Portion of abaxial leaf surface; D. Hollowed twig inhabited by ants. E. Nest entrance on twig; F. Base of leaf showing petiole and petiolules; G. Young inflorescence; H & I. Bracts; J. portion of inflorescence, showing bracts and flower buds; K. Full-blooming inflorescence; L. Flowers, lateral view; M. Mouth of calyx tube showing ovary and filaments base; N. Bracteole (adaxial side); O. Anthers, adaxial (left) and abaxial (right) sides; P. Stigma; Q. Infructescence; R. Seeds.

Scale bars C, O & P = 1 mm, H = 5 mm, N = 2 mm, R = 1 cm. 

Photographed A & H from Tagane et al. Z1615, B, C, F, G, I–Q from Tagane et al. Z3281, D & E from Tagane et al. Z2639, R from Tagane et al. Z3281 (above three) and Z2639 (bottom), taken by S. Tagane.

  

Saraca laotica Tagane & Soulad., sp. nov.  

 

Diagnosis:—Similar to Saraca griffithiana and S. declinata in having persistent bracts and 4 stamens, but distinguished from the former by its midrib sunken adaxially (vs. prominent in S. griffithiana), longer bracts (1.4–3.3 cm long vs. shorter than 0.5 cm), and longer calyx tube (27–36 mm vs. 12–18 mm), and from the latter by more leaflets [5–9 pairs vs. 3–5(–7) pairs in S. declinata], more secondary veins [(9–)11–20 pairs vs. (6–)8–10(–12) pairs], larger bracts (1.4–3.3 × 0.6–0.9 cm vs. 0.3–1.2 × 0.1–0.7 cm), and longer anthers (1.9–2.2 mm vs. 0.75 mm long).

Etymology:—The specific epithet “laotica” refers to the country Laos, where the new species was discovered. 

Vernacular name:—ຄໍາລາວ (Kham Lao) (proposed here). In Lao, “Kham” means golden, referring to the color of the flowers, and “Lao” is the country name, indicating the locality where this species is found.

Shuichiro TAGANE, Kajonesuk PHENGMALA, Deuanta KONGXAISAVATH, Anousone SENGTHONG, Takenori YAMAMOTO, Phongphayboun PHONEPASEUTH, Quoc Trong PHAM, Van-Son DANG and Phetlasy SOULADETH. 2026. Saraca laotica (Fabaceae), A New Species from Laos. Phytotaxa. 749(1); 1-9. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.749.1.1 [2026-03-25]

 facebook.com/groups/168567307206461/permalink/2011536822909491/

[Botany • 2026] Firmiana laotica (Malvaceae) • A New Species from Limestone Karst, Khammouane Province, central Laos and Five New Records for the Flora of Laos

 

Firmiana laotica Sengthong, Soulad. & Tagane,

in Sengthong, Tagane, Souladeth, Dang, Yamamoto, Souvannakhoummane, Kongxaisavath, Phengmala, Tanaka et Pham, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.18942/apg.202523 

facebook.com/PhetlasySouladeth

 

Abstract

A new species, Firmiana laotica (Malvaceae), and five new records, Justicia oreophila (Acanthaceae), Aganosma wallichii (Apocynaceae), Colebrookea oppositifolia (Lamiaceae), Myristica yunnanensis (Myristicaceae), and Brachytome hainanensis (Rubiaceae) are reported for the flora of Laos. Voucher specimens, photographs, and ecological information in Laos are provided for each species.

Keywords: Central Laos, Firmiana laotica, flowering plants, Nam Kading NPA, Phou Hin Poun NP

Firmiana laotica Sengthong, Soulad. & Tagane.
A, habitat. B & C, habit. D, leafy twig. E, lower leaf surface. F, inflorescence. G, staminate flower. H & I, pistillate flowers. J, young fruits. All photos by Shuichiro Tagane.

Firmiana laotica Sengthong, Soulad. & Tagane, sp. nov. 

ປໍຜາລາວ

  Firmiana laotica is similar to F. fulgens (Wall. ex Mast.) K.Schum., but distinguished by leaf lobe apex (long-acuminate to caudate in F. laotica vs. acute to obtuse F. fulgens), lower leaf surface color (glaucous vs. not glaucous), depth of calyx lobes (lobed (1/3−)1/2 of calyx length vs. lobed 1/3–1/4 of calyx length), and number of stamens (15 in 5 groups of 3 vs. 20 or 25 in 5 groups of 4 or 5).

 

 Anousone Sengthong, Shuichiro Tagane, Phetlasy Souladeth, Van-Son Dang, Takenori Yamamoto, Keooudone Souvannakhoummane, Deuanta Kongxaisavath, Kajonesuk Phengmala, Nobuyuki Tanaka and Quoc Trong Pham. 2026. A New Species and Five New Records for the Flora of Laos. Acta Phytotaxonomica et Geobotanica. 77(1); 23-34. DOI: doi.org/10.18942/apg.202523 

 

ຂໍແນະນຳພືດຊະນິດໃໝ່ຂອງໂລກ ຈາກນິເວດພູຫິນປູນ (ບ້ານກອງລໍ ເຂດປ່າປ້ອງກັນພູໄຮ ແລະ The Rock at Phuphamarn ເມືອງຄູນຄຳ ແຂວງຄຳມ່ວນ)

ມີຊື່ວິທະຍາສາດ Firmiana laotica Sengthong, Soulad. & Tagane

ແລະ ໄດ້ໃຫ້ຊື່ລາວວ່າ ປໍຜາລາວ

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[Botany • 2024] Salvia tainingensis (Lamiaceae) • A neglected New Species from Fujian Province, China

 

Salvia tainingensis  Y.L.Gao, D.Xie & Z.L.Ning, 

in Xie, M.-H. Zhang, Dong, Gao, D.-G. Zhang et Ning,  2024. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.669.2.7 

 Researchgate.net/publication/385106152 

 

Abstract

A species could not be known to the world of science if it not be discovered and described, considerable number of new species are neglected due to the plant itself and some other external restricted factors. On the basis of morphological and molecular evidences, a new species previously identified as Salvia scapiformis is now described and illustrated as Salvia tainingensis, named after Taining County in Fujian Province, where it was discovered. S. tainingensis does not closely resemble S. scapiformis, but is more similar to Salvia glabrifolia and Salvia daiguii, which were once identified as S. scapiformis, in terms of leaf shape, apex, base, corolla color, and connective length. However, it can be easily distinguished from the latter two by its thinly leathery leaves, serrate leaf margins, densely villous or glabrescent leaf abaxial, and the X-shaped arrangement of connective and filament.

molecular phylogeny, new taxon, Salvia, taxonomy, Eudicots, Flora of Fujian

  Image of living plants of Salvia tainingensis.
A, B, C Habitat D Individual E, F Inflorescence G-J Flower K Connective and filament L Calyx M Bract N Leaves

Salvia tainingensis Y.L.Gao, D.Xie & Z.L.Ning

DAN XIE, MENG-HUA ZHANG, SHU-PENG DONG, YUAN-LONG GAO, DAI-GUI ZHANG and ZU-LIN NING. 2024. Salvia tainingensis, A neglected New Species of Lamiaceae from Fujian Province, China. Phytotaxa. 669(2); 150-158. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.669.2.7 [2024-10-22]

http://english.scib.cas.cn/news/202410/t20241029_693026.html

 Researchgate.net/publication/385106152_Salvia_tainingensis_a_new_species_from_Fujian_Province_China

[Botany • 2026] Mentha deleoi (Lamiaceae) • A New Species from Sicily

Mentha deleoi Raimondo,   

in Raimondo, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/plants15040563 

Abstract

Mentha deleoi is described from Isola Grande, an islet in the Stagnone of Marsala (Trapani, NW Sicily), included within the homonymous Regional Oriented Nature Reserve. It is a perennial herb with an ephemeral annual cycle; in several morphological characters, it shows affinity with M. pulegium, a Eurimediterranean hemicryptophyte widely distributed in Sicily from coastal areas to high mountain habitats. Diagnostic and differential characters are provided, together with analyses of the biology, ecology, and chemistry of this new Sicilian endemic species. Owing to its extremely restricted distribution, small population size, and the potential impacts affecting the islet and its fragile habitat, resulting from centuries saliculture, a conservation plan is proposed, aimed at both in situ and ex situ protection. 

Keywords: Mediterranean flora; taxonomy; endemism; Sicily; biodiversity conservation; economic valorization 

Mentha deleoi in flowering: 

(a–c) in the spring; (d,e) in the summer; (e,f) plants with white flowers.

Mentha deleoi Raimondo sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Species herbacea perennis, ciclo effimero, omnibus organis aeriis dense villosa. Differt a Mentha pulegium L. foliis ovatis ad oblongis, plerumque convolutis; scapis floriferis erectis vel decumbentibus-ascendentibus, in plantis maiore magnitudine longioribus; verticillasteribus numerosis, densis, contiguis et globosis; floribus plerumque lilacinis, rarius albis.

Etymology: The name of the new species commemorates Prof. Antonino De Leo (1905–1971), chemist and phytologist, and Professor of Systematic Botany at the University of Palermo. On 3 July 1971—just days after graduating in Agricultural Sciences from the University of Palermo—Prof. De Leo appointed the author as Curator of the Botanical Garden, introducing him to environmental and applied botany, which he pursued continuously for over fifty years. He was among the first researchers in Italy to initiate applied studies on the biology and chemistry of tropical and subtropical plants introduced and cultivated at the Botanical Garden, fields that he directed from 1968 until his untimely death in November 1971.

 Francesco Maria Raimondo. 2026. Mentha deleoi (Lamiaceae): A New Species from Sicily. Plants. 15(4); 563. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/plants15040563 [11 February 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Paraphlomis aristata (Lamiaceae) • A New Species from Northern Luzon, Philippines

Paraphlomis aristata  Tandang, Calaramo & Bucay, 

in Tandang, Calaramo, Bucay, Obeña et Angeles, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.737.2.3

Abstract

Paraphlomis aristata, a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae), was discovered in Northern Luzon, Philippines, and is herein described and illustrated. The new species shares phenetic similarity with P. javanica in having a stem with quadrangular, obtuse corners, covered with fine hairs, and with elliptic leaves that are confined to the upper stem. In addition, the species have globose verticillaster inflorescences, and mature nutlets have a rounded apex. Paraphlomis aristata is notably differentiated by its light-yellow flowers with calyces that have a strongly involute margin, which are constantly densely villose on the abaxial surface throughout both flowering and fruiting stages. Moreover, the calyx lobes are narrowly triangular, each with a needle-like, filiform, or bristle-like apex.

 endemic, Kalbario Patapat Natural Park (KPNP), Paraphlomideae, Eudicots

Paraphlomis aristata  Tandang, Calaramo & Bucay, sp. nov. 

Danilo N. TANDANG, Michael Agbayani CALARAMO, Mark Angelo C. BUCAY, Ren Divien R. OBEÑA and Marjorie D. Delos ANGELES. 2026. A New Species of Paraphlomis (Lamiaceae) from Northern Luzon, Philippines.  Phytotaxa. 737(2); 77-88. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.737.2.3 [2026-01-09]

  facebook.com/nationalmuseumofthephilippines/posts/1318166257005317

[Botany • 2025] Clerodendrum kelli (Lamiaceae) • A New Species from Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, and Lectotypification of Clerodendrum mindorense

 

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples, 

in Ples, Patykowski, Udasco, Altomonte, Tobias et Bustamante, 2025. 

Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2) 

  facebook.com/phtaxa

ABSTRACT

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples—a new species of the genus Clerodendrum L. (Lamiaceae) from the montane forests of Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, Luzon Island, Philippines—is described and illustrated. The species shares morphological features that are uncommon for the genus with both Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Blanco) Merr. (purple abaxial leaf surfaces) and C. mindorense Merr. (reduced fruiting calyx lobes), but differs from both in having lax (vs dense/compact) inflorescences bearing flowers with shorter corolla tubes and reddish-pink (vs green or purple) calyces with ovate (vs triangular or lanceolate) lobes. Additionally, a lectotype for C. mindorense is assigned. Preliminary assessment of its conservation status following IUCN guidelines places Clerodendrum kelli in the category of Critically Endangered (CR B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii)).

 Keywords. Lamiales, Luzon Island, Pantabangan-Carranglan Watershed Forest Reserve, understorey shrub

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples.
A. Flowering twig. B. Leaf. C. Flower. D. Anther. E. Stigma. F. Developing fruit and fruiting calyx without lobes.

 Illustrated by Julieferd Torres.

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples. 
A. Habit. B. Leaves, adaxial and abaxial surface. C. Flowers and immature fruits. D. Inflorescence and flowers (front view). E. Longitudinal section of flower. F. Inflorescence and flowers (side view).

(Photos: A, E, A.B. Tobias; B, D, J.P. Collantes; C, J.A. Mansibang; F, J.M. Agcaoili)

Clerodendrum kelli R.Bustam., A.B.Tobias & Ples, sp. nov.

 This species shares characters that are uncommon for the genus with both Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Blanco) Merr. (purple abaxial leaf surfaces) and Clerodendrum mindorense Merr. (reduced fruiting calyx lobes). However, it differs from both in having lax (vs dense/compact) inflorescences bearing flowers with shorter (1.2–1.5 vs 2–3 and 4.5–11 cm long) corollas and reddish-pink (vs green or purple) calyces with ovate (vs triangular or lanceolate) lobes.

Etymology and uses. The specific epithet kelli is the Bugkalot name for this species. The Bugkalot recognise Clerodendrum kelli as a species that occurs in the colder areas of the mountain; they traditionally mix extracts from the mashed leaves of this plant with food preparations for sick dogs to restore their health (Udasco, pers. comm.).

Ples, D.J.R., Patykowski, J., Udasco, L.C., Altomonte, J.C., Tobias, A.B. & Bustamante, R.A.A. 2025. Clerodendrum kelli (Lamiaceae), A New Species from Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, and lectotypification of Clerodendrum mindorense. Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2); 225 - 224.

  facebook.com/phtaxa/posts/1252859430233555

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https://www.nparks.gov.sg/sbg/research/publications/gardens'-bulletin-singapore/-/media/sbg/gardens-bulletin/gbs_77_02_y2025/77_02_07_y2025_v77p2_gbs_pg225.pdf

 

[Botany • 2025] Sideritis carpetana (Lamiaceae) • A New high-mountain Mediterranean Species from the marble outcrops of the Sierra de Guadarrama (Central System, Madrid, Segovia, Spain)

Sideritis carpetana  Izquierdo & Gavilán,

in Izquierdo, Ugarte, Gutiérrez-Girón, Castro, Núñez et Gavilán, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.251.129982 

Abstract

A new species of Sideritis (Sideritis carpetana) is described from the calcareous, high-mountain Spanish flora in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula. It is found in a Mediterranean climate at high-elevation, perennial, calcareous grasslands, as well as in marble screes of anthropogenic origin in the Sierra de Guadarrama, Central System (Spain), in a reserve area within the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, at 1996 m asl. Taxonomic morphological measurements were performed on collected specimens from Sierra de Guadarrama as well as on geographically-adjacent Sideritis (i.e., S. glacialis, S. pungens, S. hyssopifolia). The relationships among them were then explored with multivariate analysis. Sideritis carpetana is a dwarf shrub with an erect or decumbent habit, growing up to 15 cm; non-woody twigs with long hairs of 3–4 cells, leaves are entire, linear-oblanceolate, sparsely covered with trichomes; inflorescence is spiciform or slightly verticillated, flowers are yellow and nutlets ovoid. A key is supplied to help distinguish it from other high-mountain Iberian species included in section Sideritis. The species is unique in its combination of morphological and autoecological characters. S. carpetana shares similarities with S. glacialis, a species from Sierra Nevada, and its northern Mediterranean variant, S. glacialis subsp. fontqueriana from Sierra de Gúdar. They share morphological characters that are absent in other high-mountain Sideritis, reinforcing their Mediterranean character, as opposed to a more temperate or submediterranean character, such as those of the hyssopifolia group.

Key words: Calcareous high-mountain grasslands, Carpetan Mountains, high mountain species, marble outcrops, Mediterranean area, Sideritis sect. Sideritis, Sideritis subsect. Fruticulosa

Sideritis carpetana natural habit in the marble anthropogenic outcrops of La Flecha Pass (Sierra de Guadarrama National Park).

Sideritis carpetana, Sierra de Guadarrama, La Flecha Pass (1996 m asl)
a habit b Lower branches c inflorescence detail showing lower verticillaster bract and calyx d inflorescence detail showing upper verticillaster bract.

 Sideritis carpetana Izquierdo & Gavilán, sp. nov.

Jose Luis Izquierdo, Rosina Magaña Ugarte, Alba Gutiérrez-Girón, Concepción Obón de Castro, Diego Rivera Núñez and Rosario G. Gavilán. 2025. Sideritis carpetana (Labiatae), A New high-mountain Mediterranean Species from the marble outcrops of the Sierra de Guadarrama (Central System, Madrid, Segovia, Spain). PhytoKeys. 251: 143-159. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.251.129982 

[Botany • 2025] Scutellaria cavicola (Lamiaceae) • A New Cave-dwelling Species from Northwest Guangxi, China

Scutellaria cavicola C.Xiong, Z.Y.Wei & L.F.Fu, 

in Xiong, Wei, Liu, Chen, X.-Y. Fu, Wang et L.-F. Fu, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.262.158923

Abstract

Scutellaria cavicola C.Xiong, Z.Y.Wei & L.F.Fu, a new cave-dwelling species discovered in Lingyun County, Guangxi, China, was described and illustrated. The new species morphologically resembles S. tsinyunensis in having ligneous stems, stiffly papery leaves, undulate leaf margins. However, it can be clearly distinguished from S. tsinyunensis in the height of plants, the shape of leaf blades, the length of petiole and racemes, the size of leaves and nutlets. The results of molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on nuclear ribosome internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and external transcribed spacers (ETS) of 43 Scutellaria species, showed that S. cavicola is closely related to S. tsinyunensis. Notably, according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the new species is assigned to the Critically Endangered (CR) category.

Key words: Flora of Guangxi, Karst cave, Lingyun County, phylogeny, Scutellaria tsinyunensis, taxonomy

Scutellaria cavicola C.Xiong, Z.Y.Wei & L.F.Fu, sp. nov.
A, B. Habitat; C. Flowering plant; D. Young inflorescence; E. Mature inflorescence; F. Flower (side view); G. Flower (front view); H. Dissection of a flower; I. Fruiting calyces; J. Nutlets.

 Scutellaria cavicola C.Xiong, Z.Y.Wei & L.F.Fu, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Scutellaria cavicola belongs to Scutellaria Ser. Javanicae C. Y. Wu (Wu and Li 1977) and exhibits morphological similarities to S. tsinyunensis C.Y. Wu & S. Chow (Wu and Li 1977) (Fig. 4). Both species are characterised by certain shared traits, including ligneous stems, leathery or stiffly papery leaves, undulate leaf margins. However, S. cavicola differs from S. tsinyunensis by its shorter stems (15–30 cm tall vs. 30–60 cm), lamina ovate to triangular-ovate, 14.5–23 × 8.5–14.5 mm (vs. ovate-lanceolate to lanceolate, 40–80 × 15–35 mm), petiole 3–7.5 mm long (vs. sessile or short, 0–4 mm), racemes 1–5 cm long and 3–10 flowers (vs. 8–10 cm, up to 30 flowers). A more detailed comparison of the two species is provided in Table 2.

 Chi Xiong, Zi-Yu Wei, Rui-Ning Liu, Feng Chen, Xiao-Ying Fu, Yi-Chen Wang and Long-Fei Fu. 2025. Scutellaria cavicola (Lamiaceae), A New Cave-dwelling Species from Northwest Guangxi, China. PhytoKeys 262: 293-304. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.262.158923

[Botany • 2025] Paraphlomis anisochila (Lamiaceae) • A New Species from Hunan, China

 

Paraphlomis anisochila  Y.P.Chen, A.Liu & F.Zhang, 

in Liu, H.-B. Chen, Zhang et Y.P. Chen. 2025.

 DOI:  doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.259.153345

 

Abstract

Paraphlomis anisochila, a new species from the subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests of Hunan Province, southern China, is described and illustrated. Morphological comparisons indicate that P. anisochila is most similar to P. seticalyx, whereas molecular phylogenetic analyses based on a comprehensive sampling and two nuclear ribosomal DNA regions (ITS and ETS) place it as the sister species of P. yingdeensis. Paraphlomis anisochila is characterized by its unequal corolla lips, distinguishing it from all other Paraphlomis species. Additionally, it differs from P. seticalyx in lamina shape, petiole and calyx length, and from P. yingdeensis in plant indumentum, calyx tooth apex, and corolla color.

Key words: Evergreen broad-leaved forests, Lamioideae, Paraphlomideae

Paraphlomis anisochila from the type locality.
A. Habitat; B. Habit; C. Stolons; D. Inflorescence; E. Lateral view of flowers; F. Frontal view of flower; G. Frontal view of calyces (Photographed by A. Liu).

Foliar and floral morphology of Paraphlomis anisochila.
 A. Leaves; B. Flower and corolla; C. Calyx; D. Dissected calyces; E. Dissected corolla; F. Style; G. Ovary (Photographed by Y.P. Chen).

 Paraphlomis anisochila Y.P.Chen, A.Liu & F.Zhang, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Paraphlomis anisochila is morphologically similar to P. seticalyx and P. yingdeensis, but differs from the former in having an obovate to subcircular (vs. broadly ovate) lamina, 0.5–2.5 cm (vs. 3.5–9 cm) long petioles, unequal (vs. subequal) corolla lips, and subcircular (vs. oblong) lateral lobes of the lower corolla lip, from the latter in having an abaxially sparsely strigose (vs. densely villous) lamina, an acuminate (vs. bristle-like-acuminate) apex of calyx tooth, and a white (vs. yellow) corolla with unequal (vs. subequal) lips.

Etymology. The specific epithet “anisochila” refers to the distinct corolla morphology of the new species, characterized by significantly unequal upper and lower lips, which differentiates it from other Paraphlomis species that typically possess subequal/equal corolla lips.

Ang Liu, Hai-Bo Chen, Fan Zhang and Ya-Ping Chen. 2025. Paraphlomis anisochila (Lamiaceae), A New Species from Hunan, China. PhytoKeys. 259: 249-262. DOI:  doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.259.153345

[Botany • 2025] Chelonopsis guchengensis (Lamiaceae) • A New Species from Hubei Province in Central China

Chelonopsis guchengensis  X.Q.Liu, Z.C.Wei, Y.H.Xu, Y.X.Chen & J.Wen,

in Xu, Wei, Fu, Xiang, Deng, H. Liu, Chen, Wen et X. Liu, 2025. 

谷城铃子香  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.253.145834 

Abstract

Chelonopsis is a small genus endemic to East Asia. In this study, a new species, C. guchengensis, from Nanhe National Nature Reserve, Gucheng County, Hubei Province is described and illustrated. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on two nuclear ribosomal DNA regions (ETS and ITS) and five plastid DNA markers (trnL intron, trnL-trnF, trnS-trnG, psbA-trnH, and rps16) were carried out to explore the phylogenetic position of the new species. A close relationship between the new species and C. giraldii is supported by molecular phylogenetic and morphological evidence. However, the two species can be easily distinguished from each other by mostly leaf and inflorescence morphology.

Key words: Central China, Gomphostemmateae, Lamioideae, molecular phylogeny, taxonomy

Chelonopsis guchengensis
  A habit B flower C front view of flower D internal view of corolla E pistil, stamens and bracteoles F front and back views of the blades G flower bud H front view of sepal.

 Chelonopsis guchengensis X.Q.Liu, Z.C.Wei, Y.H.Xu, Y.X.Chen & J.Wen, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. The new species is morphologically similar to C. giraldii but differs in having longer and wider leaves (ca. 2–10 cm × 1–5 cm vs ca. 2.5–4 cm × 1.8–2.5 cm), and different leaf shapes (leaf shape oblong-ovoid, base attenuate, margin serrate, apex caudate vs leaf shape ovate, base truncate, margin crenate, apex obtuse in C. giraldii) (Fig. 4). The main differences between C. guchengensis and other plants in the genus are as follows: leaf shape oblong-ovoid (vs lanceolate in C. chekiangensis and ovate in C. rosea and C. mollissima); usually 2-flowered, pedicel length 1.5 cm (vs 3-flowered or more, pedicel tight and nearly sessile in C. abbreviata); bracteoles linear-lanceolate, ca. 1.5 cm long (vs bracteole conspicuous, leaf lanceolate, ca. 2.5 cm long in C. bracteata); corolla purplish red (vs yellow in C. lichiangensis, C. odontochila and milky yellow in C. souliei); and calyx apex acuminate (vs gradually aristate in C. forrestii).

Etymology. The new species is named after Gucheng County in Hubei, China where it is distributed. The Chinese name is given as“谷城铃子香”.

 Yuhan Xu, Zhengcai Wei, Qiang Fu, Chunlei Xiang, Zhengqun Deng, Houchao Liu, Yuxing Chen, Jun Wen and Xiuqun Liu. 2025. Chelonopsis guchengensis, A New Species of Lamiaceae from Hubei Province in Central China. PhytoKeys. 253: 331-342. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.253.145834 

[Botany • 2025] Petrolamium crnojevicii • Morphology and Molecules revealed A remarkable New Genus of Lamiaceae, a surprising discovery in south-eastern Europe

Petrolamium crnojevicii  Dragićević, Vuksanović & Surina, 

in Surina, Vuksanović, Dragićević, Glasnović, Siljak-Yakovlev, Balant, Radosavljević, Xiang et Li, 2025.   

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/tax.13313

Abstract

Petrolamium crnojevicii gen. & sp. nov., a new distinct and remarkable monotypic genus of Lamiaceae, was discovered in the Dinaric karst of southern Montenegro. This taxon exhibits a unique combination of morphological traits, including eglandular, mostly glabrous reniform leaves with 5–7 lobes and prominent hydatodes at their tips. Its small pedicellate flowers feature included anthers and styles within the corolla tube, a straight, narrow, and emarginate to bifurcate posterior corolla lip, and an anterior lip with entire, broadly elliptic-oblong lateral lobes. The trigonous mericarps have a truncated apex and bear fatty tissue. Notably, Petrolamium has a unique chromosome number of 2n = 32. A molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on 79 plastid protein-coding genes and 5 chloroplast markers placed Petrolamium in the subfamily Lamioideae, where it forms a distinct lineage, sister to the other members of the tribe Lamieae. Petrolamium is also unique from an ecological point of view, as it exclusively inhabits floristically depauperate calcareous rock crevices in a very restricted distribution range. This makes P. crnojevicii a critically endangered species according to IUCN criteria and emphasizes the need for immediate conservation efforts. This study highlights the importance of ongoing floristic exploration, demonstrating that even in regions long considered botanically well-known, important discoveries can still emerge, including within extensively investigated plant families like the Lamiaceae.

Keywords: Lamioideae, Mediterranean, molecular phylogeny, new genus, Petrolamium, systematics

 

  

Petrolamium crnojevicii Dragićević, Vuksanović & Surina, gen. et sp. nov.

Boštjan Surina, Snežana Vuksanović, Snežana Dragićević, Peter Glasnović, Sonja Siljak-Yakovlev, Manica Balant, Ivan Radosavljević, Chun-Lei Xiang and Bo Li. 2025.  Morphology and Molecules revealed A remarkable New Genus of Lamiaceae, a surprising discovery in south-eastern Europe. TAXON. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/tax.13313 [18 February 2025]