Glochidionyangchunense (Phyllanthaceae), a new species with discoid flowers from Guangdong Province, China

PhytoKeys. 2024 Mar 21:239:229-238. doi: 10.3897/phytokeys.239.118411. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Phyllanthodendron can be readily morphologically distinguished from Glochidion, but recent molecular evidence showed that Phyllanthodendron is paraphyletic due to Glochidion being nested within it. In this study, a new species of the former Phyllanthodendron is described and illustrated as Glochidionyangchunense Z.Q. Song & Gang Yao from the limestone areas of South China. This is a peculiar new species and morphologically distinguished by its discoid flowers, T-shaped disc segments, and glabrous flowering branches. A key to Glochidionyangchunense and related species in China is provided here.

Keywords: Karst; Malpighiales; Phyllantheae; Phyllanthodendron; Taxonomy.