[Botany • 2026] Cryptanthus pataxoanus & C. beuckeri • Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century

 

Cryptanthus pataxoanus  Forzza & Leme,

in Leme, Fernandez, Fontana, Almeida et Forzza, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1 

Abstract

The authors describe and illustrate a new species of Cryptanthus, C. pataxoanus, found within the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, and present new data on its closest morphological relative, C. beuckeri, both endemic to the Atlantic Forest of the state of Bahia, Brazil, and assessed as Critically Endangered (CR). The new taxon represents one of the most ornamental discoveries in recent years due to its marbled foliage, with contrasting greenish-yellow and dark green colors, which is similar to C. beuckeri. The main differences between C. pataxoanus and its closest relative include leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, the much broader portion of the blades distinctly longer, the narrower sepals covered by brown-centered trichomes, and petals without glandulose trichomes. The discovery of the new species results from cooperative work with the Pataxó indigenous community living in Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands, located within the boundaries of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park. It symbolizes the inexhaustible richness of the Brazilian biodiversity in general and the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia in particular, despite its current coexistence with high levels of threat.

Monocots, Atlantic Forest, Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, morphology, taxonomy

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A, B. Details of the population at the type locality. C. Habit. Photos: S. Caram (A, B); E. Leme (C).

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A. Elongate stem. B. Details of the marginal spines. C. Inflorescence. D. Details of the inflorescence. E–O. Perfect flower. E. Floral bracts of the basal fascicles. F. Sepals. G. Petal and stamens. H. Stigma. I. Frontal view of the anther just before anthesis. J. Abaxial view of the anther just before the anthesis. K. Basal fascicle. L. Flower. M. Basal portion of the petal and stamens. N. Details of the apex of the sepals. O. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary. P–T. Staminate flower: P. Flower of the inner portion of the inflorescence. Q. Floral bract. R. Details of the apex of the sepal. S. Sepals. T. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary.

 Photos: E. Leme. Bars: A = 2 cm; B, C, K, L, P = 1 cm; D–G, M–O, Q–T = 5 mm; H–J = 1 mm.

 Cryptanthus pataxoanus Forzza & Leme, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis:—This new species can be distinguished from its morphologically closest relative, Cryptanthus beuckeri, by the leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, with subpetioles gradually merging into the much broader distal portion (vs. always distinctly petiolate, with petioles strongly contrasting with the much broader distal portion); the much broader portion of the blades longer (20–30 cm vs. 10–20 cm long); sepals with narrower lobes (vs. 2–2.5 mm vs. 3.5–4 mm wide) covered by distinctly brown-centered trichomes (vs. trichomes white); and petals without glandulose trichomes (vs. adaxially bearing glandulose trichomes).

Etymology:—The name of this new species honors the Pataxó indigenous people. They belong to the Macro-Jê linguistic family and have a long history of resistance, facing challenges such as reclaiming their traditional lands and promoting the value of their culture since the 16th century. The Pataxó predominantly inhabit the extreme south of Bahia, which includes the area of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park where the Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands are located. They maintain strong traditions, such as the Patxohã language, rituals (like the Awê), and the use of body paintings that serve as cultural identifiers, in addition to promoting the conservation of the environment within their traditional natural territory.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus.
B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus. B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.
C–F. Illegal selective logging and habitat degradation associated with mule trampling used for clandestine timber extraction inside the park. Photos: R.C. Forzza (B); C. Rodrigues (C, D, E, F).

ELTON M. C. LEME, EDUARDO P. FERNANDEZ, ANDRÉ P. FONTANA, PEDRO S. DE ALMEIDA and RAFAELA C. FORZZA. 2026. Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae, Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century.  Phytotaxa. 763(3); 201-218. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1  [2026-06-24]

[Botany • 2026] Disporum yobinorum (Colchicaceae) • A New Species from Eastern Himalaya, India

  

Disporum yobinorum 

in Sahani et Chowlu, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.11 

Researchgate.net/publication/410044052

Disporum Salisbury (1812) (Colchicaceae) comprises 42 accepted species worldwide (POWO 2026). In India, Disporum is represented by 10 accepted names including 6 species and varieties (POWO, 2026). Additionally, Dasgupta (2006) treated all Indian taxa under a single species; a broadly circumscribed D. cantoniense (Loureiro; 1790: 206) Merrill (1919: 229). There are 24 species distributed in Bhutan, China, India, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, Sikkim, Thailand and Vietnam (Liang & Tamura 2000, Li et al. 2007, Hu et al. 2016, Zhu et al. 2016 Hareesh et al. 2018, WCSPF 2018).

Monocots, Disporum yobinorum, new species, Eastern Himalaya, Colchicaceae

Disporum yobinorum sp. nov. 

VINAY KUMAR SAHANI and KRISHNA CHOWLU. 2026. Disporum yobinorum (Colchicaceae), A New Species from Eastern Himalaya, India.  Phytotaxa. 767(1); 93-97. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.1.11 [2026-07-16] 

Researchgate.net/publication/410044052_Disporum_yobinorum_a_new_species_from_Eastern_Himalaya_India

[Botany • 2026] Corybas apoensis (Orchidaceae: Diurideae) • A New endemic Species from Mt. Apo, Philippines

  

Corybas apoensis Agad, Tandang, R.Bustam. & Salas, 

in Agad, Mallari, Tandang, Bustamante et Salas, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.766.1.6 

facebook.com: Philippine Taxonomic Initiative

Abstract

Corybas apoensis, a new species of tribe Acianthinae endemic to Mindanao, is described herein. Among the currently recognized species of the tribe, it most closely resembles C. viridisepalus in overall floral morphology, particularly in having upright flowers borne on a slender, cylindric, erect ovary and the flower possessing a dorsal sepal and labellum tinged with conspicuous carmine veins. Both species further share a pilose labellum. However, this notable new species is distinct by having white floral background and a dorsal sepal being densely papillate on the abaxial surface. We also provided a summarized key morphological characteristics that distinguishes our new species from the later.

Monocots, Helmet orchid, Rare, Diurideae, Malesia, Taxonomy

 

Corybas apoensis Agad, Tandang, R.Bustam. & Salas, sp. nov.

KIER C. AGAD, ARCHELITO L. MALLARI, DANILO N. TANDANG, RENE ALFRED ANTON BUSTAMANTE and DARYL S. SALAS. 2026. Corybas apoensis (Orchidaceae), A New endemic Species from Mt. Apo, Philippines.  Phytotaxa. 766(1); 84-90. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.766.1.6 [2026-07-07]

  facebook.com/phtaxa/posts/1419584753561021

 

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

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

 (Drawn by Jian-ping Deng).

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

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

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

  

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

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

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

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/1988 

[Botany • 2026] Homalomena randii (Araceae) • A New Species of Araceae from West Kalimantan, Borneo

Homalomena randii  

in Irsyam  et Hariri, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.22244/rheedea.36.1203 

 facebook.com: Muhammad Rifqi Hariri

Abstract

Homalomena randii is described and illustrated here as a new species of Araceae from West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The new species is assigned to the Cyrtocladon Supergroup based on a combination of morphological characters, including typically hastate leaf blades with pronounced posterior lobes; staminate flowers consisting of (3–)4(–5) truncate stamens, each surmounted by a large, flat, cream-colored connective; and the presence of conspicuous resin droplets secreted between the staminate flowers. This discovery underscores the strong potential for further discoveries of Homalomena species in underexplored regions of Indonesian Borneo, highlighting the continuing importance of botanical exploration in the area.

Homalomena randii 

 

 

Irsyam A.S.D. and Hariri M.. 2026. Homalomena randii, A New Species of Araceae from West Kalimantan, Borneo. Rheedea. 36(2), e1203. DOI: doi.org/10.22244/rheedea.36.1203 [30.06.2026]

  facebook.com/xirayuq.reef/posts/10233483341853480

 

[Botany • 2026] Syngonium turipachense (Araceae) • A New Species of Syngonium sect. Syngonium from Chiapas, Mexico

Syngonium turipachense 

in Jiménez, Pérez-Farrera, Croat, Martínez-Martínez, Méndez, Hentrich et Aguilar-Rodríguez, 2026.

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.750.3.6 

   facebook.com/Unicach

 

The genus Syngonium is represented in Mexico by ten species, seven of which are registered for the state of Chiapas. During fieldwork between 2020 and 2025 in Berriozabal, Chiapas, we discovered an undescribed species of Syngonium sect. Syngonium that is morphologically similar to S. neglectum, but differing from that species in having one or two inflorescences per axil, glaucous stems and spathe tube, a spathe blade almost twice as long as the staminate portion of the spadix, staminate flowers retuse at the apex, glaucous immature infructescence and the spathe not persistent in mature fruits.

Aroid, Berriozabal, Reserva La Pera, Syngonium angustatum, Syngonium neglectum, Monocots

Syngonium turipachense

PEDRO DÍAZ JIMÉNEZ, MIGUEL ÁNGEL PÉREZ-FARRERA, THOMAS B. CROAT, MAURICIO GERÓNIMO MARTÍNEZ-MARTÍNEZ, GASPAR MORENO MÉNDEZ, HEIKO HENTRICH, PEDRO A. AGUILAR-RODRÍGUEZ. 2026. A New Species of Syngonium sect. Syngonium (Araceae) from Chiapas, Mexico.  Phytotaxa. 750(3); 207-215. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.750.3.6 [2026-04-07]

  facebook.com/Unicach/posts/1360714109410395

[Botany • 2026] Platylepis avaratraensis (Orchidaceae) • A New Species from northern Madagascar and its taxonomic position in Goodyerinae

Platylepis avaratraensis Hermans & Nusb., 

in Hermans, Ranirison, Havinga, Iharivolana et Nusbaumer, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.15553/c2026v811a1

 Abstract  

Taxonomy and molecular research in the genera of the subtribe Goodyerinae (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar and adjacent islands of the western Indian Ocean are discussed. The characteristics of Goodyera R.Br. and Platylepis A.Rich. are compared, their history is presented, and the respective species currently accepted for the region are detailed. A new species, Platylepis avaratraensis Hermans & Nusb., is described from the Sava region in northern Madagascar. It is most similar to P. humicola (Schltr.) Schltr. but differs by the wider leaves, shorter floral bracts, flower colour, narrower sepals and a lip with distinct calli. The distribution and ecology of the new species are discussed and its conservation status is provisionally assessed as “Endangered” following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

KEYWORDS: conservation, Goodyera, Goodyerinae, Madagascar, new species, ORCHIDACEAE, Platylepis, taxonomy

Platylepis avaratraensis Hermans & Nusb.
A: plant in its habitat; B: inflorescence with buds, flowers and young fruits; C: flower, front view with an insect (potential pollinator of the species); D: leaves; E: flowers, ovary and bracts from side view; F: fruits

 [A–D: Nusbaumer et al. 5055; E: Iharivolana & Havinga 47; F: Donati et al. 61] 

[Photos: A–D: L. Nusbaumer; E: A. Havinga; F: Iharivolana]

Platylepis avaratraensis Hermans & Nusb., sp. nov. 

Diagnosis — Platylepis avaratraensis is distinct from all other Madagascar species of the genus, and especially from P. humicola, by its long erect stem, narrowly elliptic to sub-ovate leaves (l/w ratio: 2.5–3/1), long inflorescence with a laxly flowered rachis in the apical third, floral bracts about as long as the pedicellate ovary, the rachis stem, ovary and exterior of the sepals and petals densely hirsute to villose with fine white hairs, the pale flowers with an orange-pink base to the lip, the obscurely 3-lobed lip with strongly involute margins, but without a spur, scattered thorn-like calli along the base, the curving epichile, ending in a fleshy, strongly recurved bilobed appendage, and the distinctly bifid rostellum.

Etymology — The specific epithet refers to the North (Avaratra in Malagasy) indicating its distribution in the northern part of Madagascar.

Johan Hermans, Patrick Ranirison, Alessandra Havinga, Iharivolana, Louis Nusbaumer. 2026. Platylepis avaratraensis (Orchidaceae), A New Species from northern Madagascar and its taxonomic position in Goodyerinae. Candollea. 81(1); 1-6. DOI: doi.org/10.15553/c2026v811a1 (17 June 2026)   

Les recherches taxonomiques et moléculaires sur les genres de la sous-tribu Goodyerinae de Madagascar et des îles adjacentes de l'océan Indien occidental sont discutées. Les caractéristiques de Goodyera R.Br. et Platylepis A.Rich. sont comparées, et leur histoire est présentée. Les espèces actuellement acceptées par les auteurs pour la région sont détaillées. Une nouvelle espèce d'orchidée, Platylepis avaratraensis Hermans & Nusb., est décrite dans la région de Sava, au nord de Madagascar. Elle est illustrée et comparée à d'autres espèces du genre. Elle est la plus proche de P. humicola (Schltr.) Schltr., mais se distingue par ses feuilles plus larges, ses bractées florales plus courtes, la couleur de ses fleurs, des sépales plus étroits et un labelle avec des callosités distinctes. La distribution et l'écologie de la nouvelle espèce sont discutées et son statut de conservation préliminaire est évalué comme «En danger» suivant les Catégories et Critères de la Liste rouge de l'UICN.

[Botany • 2026] Allium aralii (Amaryllidaceae) • A New Species of Allium sect. Codonoprasum from from Southeastern Anatolia (Türkiye) based on Morphological Characters and Phylogenetic Evidence

 

Allium aralii Balos Köse& Sonay,

in Balos, Köse, Sonay et Tunç. 2026. 

Kaplandağı soğanı  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3390/plants15101574  

 instagram.com/marufbalos

 

Abstract

Allium aralii Balos, Köse Sonay sp. nov. (Amaryllidaceae, sect. Codonoprasum) is described as a new species from southeastern Anatolia, Türkiye. The species is morphologically distinguished from its closest relatives—A. euphraticum, A. turcicum subsp. turcicum, A. turcicum subsp. fusciflorum, and A. yilandaghense—by a unique combination of characters: blackish outer bulb tunics, semi-cylindrical solid leaves exceeding the inflorescence, an extremely long persistent two-valved spathe (4.5–28.0 cm), a lax hemispherical inflorescence (3–4 cm diam., 10–70 flowers), a goblet-shaped perigon with dentate inner tepals, exserted bicolored stamens (white at base and apex, purple in the middle), a reticulate-foveate ovary, and verrucate seed ornamentation with undulate anticlinal walls. Seed micromorphology examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) further supports species delimitation. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear ITS and chloroplast matK sequences place A. aralii within a well-supported clade containing A. turcicum and allied species, corresponding to the eastern Mediterranean lineage of sect. Codonoprasum. ITS genetic distances between A. aralii and its morphologically closest relatives range 0.0632, falling within the typical interspecific range for Allium. The species is known from a single locality in Bozova district (Şanlıurfa) with fewer than 100 mature individuals and is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) according to IUCN criteria. This discovery highlights southeastern Anatolia as an underexplored center of Allium diversification and underscores the importance of integrative taxonomy for species delimitation within this taxonomically complex group.

Keywords: Allium; endemic; sect. Codonoprasum; morphology; taxonomy; phylogeny; seed micromorphology

 Habit and reproductive morphology of Allium aralii.
 (A) With oak trees on Mount Kaplandağı. (B,C) Inflorescences showing lax hemispherical structure. (D) Detail of perigon and pedicel, illustrating tepal arrangement and coloration.

Additional views of Allium aralii.
(A–C) Variation in inflorescence morphology, highlighting density and flower arrangement. (D) Whole plant habit, showing relative proportions of leaves, scape, and inflorescence.

 Allium aralii (From holotype M. Balos 5616).
(A) Habit. (B) Bulb. (C,D) Leaf sheathing and stem. (E) Leaf cross-section. (F,G) Perigon. (H) Close-up view of the outer tepal. (I) Inner surface of open perigon and filament. (J) Outer–inner–outer tepal. (K) Inner surface of open perigon. (L) Outer surface of open perigon. (M) Anther (N) Ovary. (O) Ovary cross-section (P) Scape cross-section. (Q) Capsule. (R) Seed.

Allium aralii Balos, Köse Sonay sp. nov. 

 

Diagnosis: Allium aralii belongs to Allium sect. Codonoprasum and is morphologically distinguished from its closely related species—A. euphraticum, A. turcicum subsp. turcicum, and A. turcicum subsp. fusciflorum—by the following combination of characters: outer bulb tunics blackish (vs. brownish in A. euphraticum and A. turcicum subsp. turcicum, brownish-black in A. turcicum subsp. fusciflorum); bulbs 1.0–1.5 × 0.8–1.0 cm (vs. 1–2 cm in A. euphraticum, 1–2 cm in A. turcicum subsp. turcicum, 1–2 cm in A. turcicum subsp. fusciflorum); scape slender, 16–30 cm long (vs. 14–44 cm in A. euphraticum, 10–40 cm in A. turcicum subsp. turcicum and subsp. fusciflorum); leaves semi-cylindrical, solid, exceeding the inflorescence, 6.5–21.0 × 0.08–0.1 cm (vs. filiform, hollow, exceeding ...

Etymology: The species name ‘aralii’ was given in honor of the extraordinary academic achievements of the second author’s son, Aral Köse. Aral is an exceptional student who, after pursuing a dual degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Mathematics at Boğaziçi University, has been awarded a full scholarship for a PhD program at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB).

Turkish common name of the new species: Allium is called “Soğan” in Turkish. The author proposes “Kaplandağı soğanı” as a vernacular name for A. aralii according to the guidelines of Menemen et al. [2016].

 Mehmet Maruf Balos,Yavuz Bülent Köse,Veysel Sonay and Fatmanur Tunç. 2026. Allium aralii (Amaryllidaceae, sect. Codonoprasum), A New Species from Southeastern Anatolia (Türkiye) Based on Morphological Characters and Phylogenetic Evidence. Plants. 15(10), 1574; DOI: doi.org/10.3390/plants15101574 [21 May 2026]

 instagram.com/p/DYmM69zAjQh/marufbalos

[Botany • 2025] Newmania bambusifolia (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae) • A New Species from Hon Ba Nature Reserve, southern Vietnam

 

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao, 

in Truong, Q.B. Nguyen, Q.C. Nguyen et Leong-Škorničková, 2025. 

Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 77(1);   

ABSTRACT    

 Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao (Zingiberaceae:

Zingiberoideae), a new ginger species discovered in Hon Ba Nature Reserve, Khanh Hoa

Province in southern Vietnam is described and illustrated here with notes on distribution,

ecology, phenology, preliminary IUCN assessment, and etymology. It is distinct from all

known congeners by the very narrow leaf-blades, resembling those of bamboos. This discovery

increases the total number of species in Newmania to seven. We include an updated key to the

genus accommodating this novelty.

Keywords. Eastern Indochina, gingers, Khanh Hoa Province, Vulnerable, Zingibereae

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao in situ at Hon Ba Nature Reserve.
From the type, Truong et al. BV 1774. (Photo: B.V. Truong)

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao. 
A. Habit (inset: detail of cross-section of rhizome). Scale bar: 30 cm. B. Leaf blades from various parts of the leafy shoot (from the left: distal, middle part of pseudostem (two blades), basal). C. Pseudostem showing ligules, pulvinate petioles and bases of leaf blades. D, E. Detail of leaf sheaths and ligules. F. Rhizome with an inflorescence.

All from the type, Truong et al. BV 1774. (Photos: B.V. Truong)

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao.   
A. Distal part of the flower in different views. B. Details of stamen and stigma (left: entire stamen in adaxial view; top right: anther with part of filament in abaxial and lateral views; bottom right: details of stigma). C. Flower with bract, pedicel and part of rachis, and dissection below (from left: bract, bracteole, calyx, dorsal corolla lobe in abaxial view, lateral corolla lobes (one in adaxial and one in abaxial view), staminodes (one in abaxial and one in adaxial view), and labellum. Tweezers seen across the labellum were used to flatten it.

 All from the type, Truong et al. BV 1774. (Photos: B.V. Truong)

Newmania bambusifolia Škorničk., Vuong & Bao, sp. nov. 

Unique in the genus by its prominently narrow, bamboo-like leaf-blades and dark purple labellum with overlapping lobes. Flowers are most similar to Newmania cristata by the yellow to greenish floral tube and filament, but differ by having a small anther crest less than 1 mm long with entire rounded apex (vs anther crest 4.6–5 mm long with a bilobed apex).

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to the unusually narrow, bamboo-like leaf blades.  

Truong, B.V., Nguyen, Q.B., Nguyen, Q.C. & Leong-Škorničková, J. 2025. Newmania bambusifolia (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae), A New Species from Hon Ba Nature Reserve, southern Vietnam. Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore. 77(1); 113 - 120.

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

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

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

紫萼兰  ||  DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.538.3.5 

 Researchgate.net/publication/359082326 

 

Abstract

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

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

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

Drawn by Wenqi Hu.

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

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

(紫萼兰)

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

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

Researchgate.net/publication/359082326_Cymbidium_purpureisepalum_a_new_species_from_China

[Botany • 2026] Telipogon vasqueznunezii (Orchidaceae: Oncidiinae) • A New Species for Northern Peru

 

Telipogon vasqueznunezii C.Martel, Chamaya & Iberico,
  

in Martel, Chamaya Gonzáles, Ibérico Vela, Edquén, Rodríguez et Iturralde. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.15517/j4h3bb59 

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Abstract

Telipogon is a highly diverse genus in the Andes, yet it remains incompletely documented in northern Peru. Telipogon vasqueznunezii is morphologically similar to T. hystrix but differs in the oblong-ligulate lip, the two small lobes at the lip base, the absence of a protrusion on the lip, and the tuft of acicular setae on the columnar appendix. A detailed description, illustrations, a distribution map, and a conservation assessment are provided here.

Keywords: Andes, miniature Telipogon, montane forest relic, Telipogon embreei, Telipogon hystrix

Telipogon vasqueznunezii.
 A. Habit. B. Portion of inflorescence with flowers. C. Flower, lateral view. D. Flower, ¾ view. E. Details of setae with stellate apices. F. Anther cap with pollinarium and tuft of setae on the columnar appendix, ventral view. G. Pollinarium, ventral view.

Based on J.Chamaya 106 (holotype CPUN). Drawn by Juan F. Montoya Quino.

Telipogon vasqueznunezii.
 A. Habit. B. Portion of inflorescence with flowers. C. Leaves. D. Bract of the inflorescence. E. Flower bud. F. Flower, frontal view. G. Flower, lateral view. H. Dissected flower. I. Details of the lip trichomes. J. Ovary and column, lateral view. K. Column, frontal view. L. Column, ventral view. M. Anther cap, frontal and dorsal views. N. Pollinarium.

Based on W. Tafur 131 (UNACH). Plate prepared by Jose D. Edquén.

Telipogon vasqueznunezii.
 A. Plant in situ. B. Vegetative plant. C. Two plants with sub-erect inflorescences. D. The same individual shown in the background in C, with the inflorescence becoming pendant during further development.

Photos by James A. Chamaya G.

Comparison of flowers of Telipogon vasqueznunezii and T. hystrix. 
A. Flower of Telipogon vasqueznunezii, ¾ view. B. Flower of T. vasqueznunezii , lateral view.
C. Flower of T. hystrix, ¾ view. D. Flower of T. hystrix, lateral view.

Photos by James A. Chamaya G. (A–B) and Gabriel Iturralde (C–D).

Telipogon vasqueznunezii C.Martel, Chamaya & Iberico, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Telipogon vasqueznunezii is most similar to Telipogon hystrix (Dodson) N.H.Williams & Dressler but is distinguished by the larger flowers (9–11 × 8–13 mm vs. 5 × 5 mm), the obovate to sub-oblong petals (vs. narrowly ovate), the oblong-ligulate lip (vs. elliptical to oblong), the sub-auriculate lip base with a pair of small lobes (vs. the sagittate base with two long lobes), the absence of a protrusion on the lip (vs. a hump-like protrusion on the lower half), and one tuft of acicular setae on the columnar appendix (vs. one tuft of setae with a stellate apex on the columnar appendix).

Eponymy: The species is named after Dr Leopoldo Pompeyo Vásquez Núñez, a Peruvian botanist and professor at Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruiz Gallo. Professor Vásquez has dedicated his life to better understanding the plant diversity of northern Peru with a focus on potentially useful plants.

Carlos Martel, James Alexander Chamaya Gonzáles, Gustavo Ibérico Vela, José D. Edquén,

William Tafur Rodríguez and Gabriel A. Iturralde. 2026. A New Species of Telipogon (Orchidaceae: Oncidiinae) for Northern Peru. LANKESTERIANA. 26(2): 83–92. DOI: doi.org/10.15517/j4h3bb59 [29 May 2026] 

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[Botany • 2025] Phalaenopsis quadridentata (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Aeridinae) • A New orchid Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India

 Phalaenopsis quadridentata M.Khanal & Kumar,

in Khanal, Ari, Lendo, Singpho, Sarkar, D. Kumar et P. Kumar. 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.704.2.7  

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Abstract   

Phalaenopsis quadridentata is described as a new species from Arunachal Pradesh, India. Morphologically, this species looks similar to, Phalaenopsis mirabilis and Phalaenopsis putaoensis. However, the new species is a leafy plant bearing up to 4 flowers; sepals and petals bent backwards; labellum almost cochleate with ovate to elliptic midlobe, midrib not prominent, margin entire and ovate apex; lateral lobes of the labellum triangular, raised and arched above convergently with tips touching each other; 4 tooth-like triangular appendages at the junction of labellum and column, conical spur with densely pubescent inner surface and anther cap that is ovoid, entire, rounded. Whereas, P. mirabilis is a leafy plant bearing more than 5 flowers; sepals and petals bend forwards; labellum midlobe diamond-shaped, non-cochleate, midrib prominent and raised along its length, margin undulate and acute apex; lateral lobes truncate, erect parallelly; a high-raising linear appendage with a pointed triangular tip at the junction of labellum and column, deeply saccate spur without any hairs or ornamentation at the inner surface and anther cap ovoid with three triangular teeth at apex. Phalaenopsis putaoensis is a leafless plant bearing more than 5 flowers on one inflorescence; sepals and petals erect and spreading, labellum midlobe rhomboid and yellowish white; lacking spur; 2 raised calli from the base till apex; 2 minute slender, antenna-like appendages at the junction of labellum and column. A detailed taxonomic description, photos and notes on phenology, habitat and conservation assessment have been provided. 

Aeridinae, Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, Flora of India, moth orchids, taxonomy, Monocots

Phalaenopsis quadridentata 

Madhusudhan KHANAL, Veeresh Huchappa ARI, Pakgam Ngulom LENDO, Jaseng SINGPHO, Shuvadip SARKAR, Devendra KUMAR and Pankaj KUMAR. 2025. Phalaenopsis quadridentata (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae), A New orchid Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India. Phytotaxa. 704(2); 196-202. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.704.2.7 [2025-06-06]

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