[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 • 2026] Hellwigia opalina (Zingiberaceae: Alpinieae) • A New Species of the enigmatic Jade Gingers of Sulawesi, Indonesia

 

 Hellwigia opalina Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen,  

in Poulsen, Senjaya, Ardiyani et Newman, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.171221 

Abstract

The Indonesian Island of Sulawesi is home to a number of members of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, with unusual turquoise flowers not found anywhere else. A recent paper reinstating Hellwigia, using molecular evidence, placed these “jade gingers” in this genus. During a joint expedition between the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and Bogor Botanical Gardens 26 years ago, an interesting jade ginger was collected at Mt. Sojol. This is similar to two other named species from Sulawesi, H. coeruleoviridis and H. glacicaerulea, in having unusual dimorphic, turquoise-bluish green flowers but differs from both in the much shorter ligule without a demarcation line and is described here as Hellwigia opalina. In preparation for this, all available material of jade gingers from Sulawesi was examined, and all except the collections from Mt. Sojol had a long ligule with a demarcation line similar to H. coeruleoviridis and H. glacicaerulea. It is, however, questionable whether the identification by R.M. Smith of several collections from Lore Lindu National Park, Central Sulawesi, matches the type of H. coeruleoviridis, which was lost in Berlin during the Second World War. Until this species has been recollected at its type locality, here identified as Mt. Tentolomatinan, 300 km away, the identification cannot be easily ascertained. Rhizomes from Mt. Sojol were cultivated in botanic gardens, and plants cultivated at the Royal Botanic Garden flowered several times, which enabled detailed studies and dissection of both flower morphs. This is usually impossible during fieldwork and emphasizes the importance of cultivation of gingers—not just for ex situ conservation but also for research purposes. Detailed photographs taken of the cultivated plants were used to obtain a better morphological understanding and to illustrate Hellwigia opalina in the present paper.

Key words: Alpinia, ex situ conservation, Indonesia, monoecism, Wallacea

 Hellwigia opalina Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen, sp. nov.
A. Leafy shoots, inflorescence with functionally female flowers open; B. Leafy shoots, inflorescence with functionally male flowers open; C. Bases of leafy shoots; D. Part of pseudostem with one leaf blade; E. Close-up of ligule, petiole, and leaf base; F. Ligule, viewed from the inside; G. Close-up of midrib beneath.

All photographs of the type (A.D. Poulsen 3255) by A.D. Poulsen.  

 Hellwigia opalina Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen, sp. nov.
 Functionally female flowers: A. Inflorescence with first flowers; B. Flower; C. Bracteole; D. Calyx; E. Corolla lobes; F. Flower, bracteole removed; G. Inner part of cincinnus with functionally male flowers in bud; H. Labellum, ventral and dorsal view; J. Stamen, lateral and ventral view (staminodes); K. Gynoecium, ventral and lateral view. Functionally male flowers: L. Inflorescence; M. Flower; N. Calyx; O. Corolla lobes; P. Flower, bracteole removed; Q. Labellum, ventral and dorsal view; R. Floral tube and stamen, lateral view; S. Floral tube and staminodes; T. Floral tube and epigynous gland; U. Stamen, ventral view.

All photographs of the type (A.D. Poulsen 3255) by A.D. Poulsen.

Hellwigia opalina Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Similar to Hellwigia glacicaerulea (R.M.Sm.) Senjaya & A.D.Poulsen in having inflorescences of secund cincinni bearing turquoise-blue, dimorphic flowers but differing in its shorter ligule (2–3.5 mm, coriaceous vs. 20–30 mm, marcescent), shorter petiole (7–12 mm vs. 20–30 mm), leaf blades being densely tomentose beneath (vs. shortly tomentose), and tomentose inflorescence rhachis (vs. shortly tomentose).

Etymology. The epithet means ‘opal-colored’ from Greek, opallios, an opal.

Axel Dalberg Poulsen, Seni Kurnia Senjaya, Marlina Ardiyani and Mark Fleming Newman. 2026. Hellwigia opalina (Zingiberaceae) – A New Species of the enigmatic Jade Gingers of Sulawesi. PhytoKeys. 272: 169-180. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.272.171221 [03 Apr 2026]

 

[Botany • 2026] Etlingera cinnabarina, E. funakoshii & E. rigida (Zingiberaceae) • Three New Species from Samar Island, Philippines

 Etlingera rigida Docot;

Etlingera cinnabarina Docot & Ordas;  

Etlingera funakoshii Docot

 in Docot, Ordas, Moran, Zamudio, Romeroso, Tandang et Poulsen, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.02.03 

Abstract  

Botanical field surveys performed in the largest terrestrial protected area in the Philippines, Samar Island Natural Park (SINP), led to the discovery of three new species of Etlingera (Zingiberaceae) herein described. Etlingera cinnabarina sp. nov. can easily be distinguished by its red orange flowers, at least among Philippine species. Etlingera funakoshii sp. nov. was first identified and recorded in the Philippines as Etlingera brevilabrum, but the absence of black patches in the ligule, absence of reddish cloudy patches in the laminae, and 1-2 flowers per flowering shoot makes it a unique species. Etlingera rigida sp. nov. is closely resembling Etlingera pilosa but unique by the sessile leaves, purplish to reddish abaxial side of the lamina and rigid young fertile bracts. Each new species is provided with a detailed description, colour plate, and information on distribution, phenology, and habitat. Etlingera cinnabarina matches the criteria of the IUCN red list as Endangered (EN), whereas E. funakoshii and E. rigida as Critically Endangered (CN), since all three species have narrow distributions and threats in their respective habitats. A key to the Etlingera of Samar Island is also provided.

Keywords: Etlingera brevilabrum; Etlingera pilosa; Etlingera sayapensis; SINP; critically endangered; endangered 

Etlingera cinnabarina Docot & Ordas.
a. Habit. b. Ligule. c Lamina; d. Inflorescence. e. Inflorescence. f. Fertile bract. g. Bracteole. h. Calyx. i. Flower (calyx removed). j. Dorsal corolla lobe. k. Lateral corolla lobes. l. Labellum. m. Stamen (front and back view). n. Epigynous glands. o. Ovary (R.V.A. Docot et al. 357).

Photos by R.V.A. Docot. Scale bars = 1 cm.

Etlingera cinnabarina Docot & Ordas, sp. nov. 

 Similar to Etlingera sayapensis A.D.Poulsen & Ibrahim but differing by the sericeous ligule (vs pubescent); 10–15 mm long petiole (vs 50–70 mm); non-plicate lamina (vs prominently plicate); red orange labellum (vs deep red); lateral lobes of the labellum folded over the stamen forming a 13–16 mm long tube (vs adhering only to the sides of the stamen); and retuse anther crest (vs entire).  

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to its vermilion/red orange corolla lobes and labellum.

Etlingera funakoshii Docot.
a. Habit. b. Ligule. c Inflorescence (top view). d. Inflorescence (side view). e. Inflorescence (detached from the plant). f. Fertile bract. g. Bracteole. h. Calyx. i. Flower (calyx removed). j. Dorsal corolla lobe. k. Lateral corolla lobes. l. Labellum. m. Stamen (front and back view). n. Epigynous gland (front and back view) (S.G.S Zamudio et al. S21−183).

Photos by R.V.A. Docot.

Etlingera funakoshii Docot, sp. nov. 

Similar to Etlingera brevilabrum (Valeton) R.M.Sm. but differing by the glabrous ligule with black patches (vs scabrid without black patches); narrowly ovate lamina without reddish cloudy patches (vs oblong obovate with reddish cloudy patches); 1–2 flowers per flowering shoot (vs 1–6); mid pink corolla lobes (vs red); ecristate anther (vs 3 mm long anther crest); and dark purple stigma (vs dark red or white)  

Etymology. The first author named this species in honour of Dr. Hidenobu Funakoshi, who first saw and documented the species in the type locality. Since the early 2000’s, Dr. Funakoshi continues to share his interest in studying Philippine gingers up to the writing of this paper.

 Etlingera rigida Docot, sp. nov. 

 

Similar to Etlingera pilosa A.D.Poulsen & Docot but differing by the red and truncate apex of the ligule (vs greenish brown and rounded); sessile leaves (vs petiolate); red to greenish red abaxial side of the lamina (vs light green); rigid young fertile bracts (vs soft); pubescent dorsal side of the anther (vs glabrous); and fruit with few small warts near the apex when mature (vs prominently carinated). 

 

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to the rigid bracts.

 Docot, R.V.A. ; Ordas, J.A.D. ; Moran, C.B. ; Zamudio, S.G.S. ; Romeroso, R.B. ; Tandang, D.N. ; Poulsen, A.D. 2026. Three New Species of Etlingera (Zingiberaceae) from Samar Island, Philippines. DOI: doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.02.03 [January 12, 2026]

 facebook.com/HidenobuFunakoshi/posts/25740427845569465

[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] Parakaempferia alba (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India

Parakaempferia alba Tatum, D.Koch, B.Hajong & P.Bharali,

in Mibang, Hajong, Koch et Bharali. 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05030

Abstract

Parakaempferia alba, a new species of Zingiberaceae from East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India is herein described. A detailed taxonomic description, diagnosis, color photoplate, distribution map, notes on habitat and ecology, conservation status, and a table of comparisons with the closely related species Parakaempferai synantha Rao & Verma are provided. This new species differs, inter alia, from P. synantha by its leaf characters, number of spikes, length of peduncle, number of bracts as well as their shape and size, bracteole shape and size, staminode shape and color, labellum shape and color of apical margin, anther size and color, filament size, style size, ovary shape, and by presence of two linear shaped glands attached to the ovary.

Keywords: Eastern Himalaya, new taxon, Parakaempferia, Siang Valley

Parakaempferia alba sp. nov. habit to the right.
To the left, the red dot indicate the type location of Parakaempferia alba sp. nov. in Miglung area of East Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Black dots indicate the distribution of P. synantha in type location (North Lakhimpur, Assam) as well as in Murlen National Park, Champhai, Mizoram (Kumaret al. 2013).

Parakaempferia alba sp. nov.
 (A) Habit, (B) base of stem with immature inflorescence, (C) inflorescence, (D) flower, (E) side view of a flower with bract (bt), bracteole (bl) and calyx (cx), (F) petal (md- medial, lt- lateral), (G) labellum with stamen (st), (H) staminode, (I) pistil with 2 glands (gn).

Parakaempferia alba Tatum, D.Koch, B.Hajong, P.Bharali sp. nov. 

Tatum Mibang, Bipankar Hajong, Devpratim Koch and Pankaj Bharali. 2026. Parakaempferia alba sp. nov. (Zingiberaceae), A New Species from Arunachal Pradesh, India. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05030 [14 January 2026]

[Botany • 2025] Boesenbergia burmanica (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from Myanmar

 

  Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk:

 

in P. Saensouk, S. Saensouk, Boonma, Htway, Oo, Naing et Junsongduang, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy5040070 

Abstract

Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk, a new species from Naypyidaw Union Territory, Myanmar, is described based on morphological examination of specimens collected during field surveys in 2024–2025. The genus Boesenbergia is taxonomically complex, and ongoing botanical exploration in Southeast Asia continues to reveal undescribed taxa. Comparative analyses of living plants, herbarium materials, and published descriptions were conducted to determine diagnostic features. Boesenbergia burmanica is closely related to B. meghalayensis Aishwarya & M.Sabu but differs in having ovoid, branched rhizomes, a pubescent lamina on both surfaces, and an oblanceolate labellum with bright red markings. It grows in shady, sandy-loam habitats at 140–145 m elevation and flowers from August to September, producing inflorescences with nine to ten flowers. Species of Boesenbergia are traditionally used in Myanmar and neighboring regions as medicinal and ornamental plants, and notes on local ethnobotanical knowledge are provided. The new species exhibits high ornamental potential due to its compact clumping habit and attractive floral coloration. Cultivation guidelines are provided to support ex situ conservation and horticultural development for sustainable use. This discovery increases the number of Boesenbergia species recorded in Myanmar to 14 and highlights the importance of continued field-based taxonomic and conservation research on regional Zingiberaceae diversity.

Keywords: Boesenbergia; conservation; ethnobotany; Myanmar flora; new species; plant diversity; taxonomy; Zingibereae 

  Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk:
(a) Top view of habits. (b) Front view of flower. (c) Abaxial of leaf. (d) Rhizome dissected to show the internal coloration. (g) Side view of pseudostems.
(e) Parts of flower of B. burmanica from left to right: side view of anther, epigynous glands with ovary, calyx, dorsal corolla lobe, lateral corolla lobes, staminodes and labellum.
(f) Parts of flower of B. meghalayensis from left to right: side view of anther, epigynous glands with ovary, calyx, dorsal corolla lobe, lateral corolla lobes, staminodes, and labellum. 

  Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk sp. nov.:
 (a) Front view of anther. (b) Back view of anther. (c) Side view of flower. (d) Side view of anther with floral tube, calyx, and ovary. (e) Bract. (f) Calyx. (g) Habit. (h) Dorsal corolla lobe. (i) Lateral corolla lobes. (j) Staminodes. (k) Epigynous glands and ovary. (l) Labellum.

Illustration drawn by Thawatphong Boonma.

Boesenbergia burmanica Boonma, P.Saensouk & Saensouk sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Boesenbergia burmanica is similar to B. meghalayensis Aishwarya & M.Sabu, but differs in having ovoid, branched rhizomes (vs. running); ovoid tuberous roots (vs. cylindrical); ligule 3–5 mm long (vs. 1–2 mm); lamina narrowly elliptic, pubescent on both surfaces (vs. elliptic, glabrous); bracts pale green, puberulent (vs. white, glabrous); bracteole puberulent (vs. glabrous); rachis elongate with 9–10 flowers (vs. 4–5 flowers); labellum oblanceolate, not saccate, apex incised, white with bright red towards the apex and reddish spots on the mid-lobe (vs. ovate, saccate, apex acute, white with maroon towards the tip, maroon spots in the throat, and pale yellow along the mid-lobe); and larger anther (7.5–7.7 × 3.4–3.6 mm) with smaller crest not touching the anther backside (vs. 5–6 × 2 mm, crest 2.5 × 2 mm, tip touching backside) (Table 1, Figure 2 and Figure 3).

Etymology: The specific epithet “burmanica” refers to Myanmar (formerly Burma), the country where the species was discovered.

Piyaporn Saensouk, Surapon Saensouk, Thawatphong Boonma, Nyi Nyi Htway, Win Paing Oo, Min Khant Naing and Auemporn Junsongduang. 2025. A New Species of Boesenbergia Kuntze (Zingiberaceae) from Myanmar, with Notes on Diversity, Utilization, Conservation, and Horticultural Potential. Taxonomy. 5(4), 70; DOI: doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy5040070 [17 December 2025]

Researchgate.net/publication/398772402_A_New_Species_of_Boesenbergia_from_Myanmar

[Botany • 2025] Curcuma corallina (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae) • A New Species from south-central Vietnam

Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk.

in Phan, Nguyễn, Cao, Lý et Leong-Škorničková, 2025. 

 Nghệ hồng san hô, Nghệ san hô  ||  Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2); 

ABSTRACT

 Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk., a new ginger species discovered in the south-central region of Vietnam, is described here with colour plates and notes on its distribution, habitat, phenology, etymology, and a preliminary IUCN conservation assessment. It is placed in Curcuma subg. Ecomatae Škorničk. & Šída f. and, for diagnostic purposes, is compared to C. rhomba Mood & K.Larsen, which is superficially similar in overall plant habit, a lack of bracteoles, and flower colour, but differs in rhizome structure, and the shape, size and colour of various floral parts. 

Keywords. Curcuma rhomba, Curcuma subgenus Ecomatae, deciduous forest, endemic species, monocots, Zingibereae

Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk.
A. Flowering plant in natural habit. B. Inflorescence (top view). C. Flowers (front view). D. Basal part of a flowering plant showing rhizome with root tubers, pseudostem with leaf sheaths and petioles, and inflorescences.

All from the type collection, Lý-1916. (Photos: A, B, N.G. Cao; C, D, N.S. Lý)

Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk.
A. Flowering plant. B. Rhizome with root tubers. C. Leaf (abaxial view). D. Ligules from a flowering plant (left) and a young plant (right). E. Inflorescence. F. Fertile bracts. G. Stamen in front, back and side views. H. A bract from the middle part of the thyrse supporting two flowers followed by the flower dissection: dorsal corolla lobe, lateral staminodes, lateral corolla lobes and labellum, calyx, floral tube with ovary and stamen attached, longitudinal dissection of floral tube, and ovary and epigynous glands.

All from the type collection, Lý-1916. 

(Photos: A, D, N.G. Cao; B, C, E–H, N.S. Lý)

 

Curcuma corallina N.S.Lý & Škorničk., sp. nov. 

Resembles C. rhomba Mood & K.Larsen in its overall plant habit, lack of bracteoles, flower colour, and anther shape, but differs in having a much-branched rhizome (vs rhizome unbranched, except a single branch leading to a new shoot); coral pink and larger corolla lobes (dorsal 23–36 × 8–13 mm, lateral 21–24 × 8–11 mm vs dorsal c. 19 × 5 mm, lateral c. 18 × 4 mm, all rich red); a larger, broadly obovate labellum (19–24 × 16–21 mm) with a bluntly bilobed apex and an incision not exceeding one-third the length of the labellum (vs labellum c. 17 × 9 mm, narrowly rhomboid with a sharply bilobed apex and incision extending beyond half the length of the labellum); larger, broadly ovate staminodes (18–26 × 14–20 mm) that are rich orange with a paler base (vs c. 17 × 11 mm, narrowly rhomboid, uniformly orange with dark red dots at the base); and a shorter, truncate to slightly emarginate anther crest c. 0.5 mm long, not exceeding the stigma (vs rounded crest c. 1 mm long, exceeding the stigma). 

– TYPE: Vietnam, Ninh Thuan Province [now Khan Hoa Province], Bac Ai District, Phuoc Binh Commune, Phuoc Binh National Park [now Nui Chua-Phuoc Binh NP], ...

 

Etymology. The specific epithet is derived from Latin ‘corallinus’ and refers to the coral pink bracts and corolla lobes of the new species. 

Proposed vernacular name and uses. Nghệ hồng san hô, Nghệ san hô (Vietnamese; coral pink turmeric). No uses were so far reported by the local people.

Phan, N.M., Nguyễn, A.T., Cao, N.G., Lý, N.S. & Leong-Škorničková, J. 2025. Curcuma corallina (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae), A New Species from south-central Vietnam. Gard. Bull. Singapore. 77(2); 249 - 258. 

[Botany • 2025] Curcuma glandulosa (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from Shan State, Myanmar

Curcuma glandulosa P.P. Thwe, M.M. Aung & Nob. Tanaka,

in Thwe, Aung et Tanaka, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.266.163271

Abstract

A new species, Curcuma glandulosa P.P. Thwe, M.M. Aung & Nob. Tanaka, is described from Taunggyi, southern Shan State, Myanmar. The new species is assignable to Curcuma subgenus Ecomatae, characterized by its epigynous glands, anther spurs, and lack of a conspicuous coma of sterile bracts. Curcuma glandulosa is distinguished by its red leafy stems, white bracts with red stripes, L-shaped anther spurs with densely short glandular hairs throughout, and a prominent anther crest. The leaves develop after blooming.

Key words: Ginger, Myanmar, new taxon, Shan State, taxonomy

Curcuma glandulosa P.P. Thwe, M.M. Aung & Nob. Tanaka.
A. Habit; B. Side view of inflorescence with flowers; C. Rhizomes with tubers; D. Flowers with prominent red lines on labellum; E. Flowers without or with weak red lines on labellum; F. Side view of a flower; G. Flower parts (from above left): bract, dorsal and lateral corolla lobes, lateral staminodes; (from lower left) labellum with red lines, labellum with very weak red lines, side view of stamen, diagonally front view of stamen, epigynous glands with ovary.

Scale bars: 5 cm (A); 3 cm (B); 2 cm (C–F); 1 cm (G).

 Curcuma glandulosa P.P.Thwe, M.M.Aung & Nob.Tanaka, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Curcuma glandulosa is similar to C. sahuynhensis; however, it is distinguished from it by a combination of the following characters: red leafy stems (vs. green), broadly lanceolate lamina developing after flowering (vs. ovate to elliptic and developing at the same time of flowering), white bracts with red stripes (vs. whitish to pale green at base with coral pink to red tinge), white anther (vs. yellow), and having prominent anther crest (vs. almost negligible).

Etymology. The specific epithet “glandulosa” refers to its character of densely glandular anther.

 Phyo Phyo Thwe, Mu Mu Aung and Nobuyuki Tanaka. 2025. A New Species of Zingiberaceae, Curcuma glandulosa (Subgenus Ecomatae), from Myanmar. PhytoKeys. 266: 311-316. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.266.163271 [19 Nov 2025]

[Botany • 2025] Kaempferia grandis (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from southwestern Thailand

Kaempferia grandis Noppornch.

in Nopporncharoenkul et Limtaropas, 2025. 

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Kaempferia grandis Noppornch., a new species belonging to subgen. Kaempferia and endemic to Kanchanaburi Province, southwestern Thailand, is described and illustrated. It can be easily recognised by its 1–4 leafy shoots on each rhizome; the leafy shoots being adpressed to the substrate and consisting of a solitary leaf and inflorescence; broadly ovate to suborbicular leaf blade, which is the largest of any species in subgen. Kaempferia; and the inflorescence being enclosed by a leaf sheath and a bladeless sheath. Detailed photographs of plants and dissected flowers as well as information on phenology, distribution and habitat are provided, as well as an identification key to the species of Kaempferia subgen. Kaempferia in Thailand.

𝐾𝑎𝑒𝑚𝑝𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑠 Noppornch.

เปราะยักษ์เขียว

 Nattapon Nopporncharoenkul and Chanon Limtaropas. 2025. Kaempferia grandis (Zingiberaceae), A New Species from Thailand. Ann. Bot. Fennici. 62: 307–314. 

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[Botany • 2025] Monolophus unifolius (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from Sagaing Region, northern Myanmar

  

Monolophus unifolius  

in Ding, Yang, Zeng, Thwe Zuo et Tan, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.698.4.7 

Abstract

A new species, namely Monolophus unifolius, from Northern Myanmar is described and illustrated. Its systematic placement was confirmed through molecular phylogenetic analyses using nuclear ribosomal ITS sequences. Morphologically, this new species is notably distinct from other Monolophus species in having only one leaf blade per leafy shoot and white labellum tinged with yellow spot at the throat. A key to the Monolophus species currently recorded in Myanmar is also provided.

Caulokaempferia, new taxon, molecular phylogenetics, morphology, nrITS, Monocots

Hong-Bo DING, Bin YANG, Xiao-Dong ZENG, Phyo Phyo THWE, Yun-Juan ZUO and Yun-Hong TAN. 2025. Monolophus unifolius (Zingiberaceae), A New Species from Sagaing Region, northern Myanmar. Phytotaxa. 698(4); 277-284. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.698.4.7 [2025-05-02]

http://english.xtbg.cas.cn/rh/rp/202505/t20250508_1042766.html

[Botany • 2025] Curcuma princeps (Zingiberaceae) • A New Species from Southwestern Thailand

 

Curcuma princeps Soonthornk. & Škorničk.

in Soonthornkalump, Puangpairote, Niwesrat, Ongsakul et Leong-Škorničková, 2025. 

กระเจียวชมพูสิรินธร  |  Tropical Natural History. Supplement 8

Abstract

Curcuma princeps, a new species from the Curcuma subgen. Curcuma (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae) from southwestern Thailand is described and illustrated. For the diagnostic purpose it is compared to the morphologically closest species Curcuma petiolata. Detailed description based on living flowering material, colour plates, notes on the distribution, habitat and phenology are provided. The provisional IUCN conservation status is proposed as Endangered for this species, based on the IUCN guidelines and criteria.

Keywords: Curcuma petiolata, Kanchanaburi, Sangkhla Buri, subgenus Curcuma, Zingiberoideae

Curcuma princeps Soonthornk. & Škorničk.
A.Plant habit (inset: close up of an inflorescence); B. Rhizome with slender lateral branch; C.Detail of stamen from front, back and side views; the base of filament includes4 mm of androecial tube; D.Flower dissection, from left: bracteole, flower, calyx, ovary with epigynous glands attached, floral tube (longitudinally dissected), lateral staminodes with dorsal lobe in between (upper part), lateral lobes with labellum in between (lower part) and stamen in the centre. Basal part of labellum, staminodes and filament include ca. 4 mm of androecial tube.

Scale bars: A= 10 cm, B= 2 cm, C= 3 mm, D= 1 cm. 

All from type. Photographed by Sutthinut Soonthornkalump.

Curcuma princeps Soonthornk. & Škorničk. sp. nov. 

Diagnosis.–Similar to Curcuma petiolata Roxb.in colour and shape of the flowers, but differs by the size of the main rhizome 2–3.5 × 2–3 cm and lateral branches long, slender and horizontally creeping, up to 0.5–1.1 cm in diam. (vs main rhizome 5–8 × 3–5 cm, lateral branches short, 1.5–2 cm in diam., arranged in palmate pattern and usually pointing upwards), lamina 17–31.5 × 10–16 cm, adaxially glabrous, abaxially densely puberulous (vs lamina 25–45 × 12–23 cm, glabrous on both sides or with a few hairs along secondary veins), thyrse not longer than 12 cm, composed of 12–15 fertile bracts and 4–5 comabracts (vs thyrse 13–30 × 6–8 cm, composed of 20–50 fertile bracts and 5–10 coma bracts), cincinnus 1–4 flowers (vs cincinnus of 3–6 flowers) (Table 1).

 

Sutthinut Soonthornkalump, Tidarat Puangpairote, Sira Niwesrat, Annop Ongsakul and Jana Leong-Škorničková. 2025. Curcuma princeps (Zingiberaceae), A New Species from Southwestern Thailand. Tropical Natural History. Supplement 8; 182-187  [2025-10-14]

[Botany • 2023] Alpinia hoangviet (Zingiberaceae: Alpinieae) • Taxonomic Notes of Alpinia subsect. Catimbium in Vietnam: The First Record of Alpinia nobilis and Description of A New Species

 

Alpinia hoangviet D.D. Nguyen & V.C. Nguyen,  

    

in T.L.T. Nguyen, Saensouk, V.C. Nguyen, V.K. Nguyen, Pham, D.K. Nguyen et D.D. Nguyen. 2023.

   smujo.id/biodiv/article/view/14600 

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Abstract  

Alpinia subsect. Catimbium is characterized by the inflorescences being a raceme, panicle or spike; bracts usually absent; prominent bracteoles, if present, almost enclosing the flower buds, calyx deeply split unilaterally, deeply concave labellum usually over 3 cm long and yellow-orange marked crimson red, reduced staminodes being subulate to lightly swollen (nearly absent), and anther usually not crested. The revision of subsect. Catimbium in Vietnam is not completed yet. We estimate that the number of this subsect. is roughly 50% of Catimbium species of the World. As a result of the examination of our living specimens collected during 2019-2022, Alpinia nobilis was defined as a new record in southern Vietnam, and Alpinia hoangviet, a new species belonging to subsect. Catimbium (Zingiberaceae: Alpinieae) from Central Vietnam is described. The taxonomic treatment with a description, photographs, distribution, ecology, conservation assessment, and morphological comparison of the new species with their allies are provided. Moreover, a revised key to all species of Alpinia subsect. Catimbium in Vietnam, is included. Alpinia hirsuta and A. latilabris were eliminated from this key. Alpinia hirsuta is considered a member of subsect. Alpinia, whereas the presence of A. latilabris in Vietnam is a misidentification.

Keywords: Alpinia nobilis, A. hoangviet, subsect. Catimbium, taxonomic, Vietnam, Zingiberaceae

 

 

Alpinia hoangviet D.D. Nguyen & V.C. Nguyen, sp. nov. 
A. Flowering habit. B. Young inflorescence and inflorescence in anthesis. C. Rhizome. D. Lamina adaxially and abaxially. E. Ligule and leaf sheath. F. Cincinnus with buds and opening flower. G. Calyx (outer and innersurfaces). H. Ovary with epigynous glands and style, anther in side view and I front view. I. Dissected flower (from left): bracteoles, calyx, corolla lobes, labellum, a flower removed labellum and corolla lobes.   

 Photos by Van Canh Nguyen from type specimen NDD-23004 

Thi Lien Thuong Nguyen, Surapon Saensouk, Van Canh Nguyen, Van Khuong Nguyen, Thi Thanh Dat Pham, Dang Khoa Nguyen and Danh Duc Nguyen. 2023. Taxonomic Notes of Alpinia subsect. Catimbium (Zingiberaceae) in Vietnam: The First Record of Alpinia nobilis and Description of A New Species Alpinia hoangviet. Biodiversitas. 24: 5293-5301. smujo.id/biodiv/article/view/14600

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