Ophiorrhiza jacobii (Rubiaceae) sp. nov. from Western Ghats, India

Abstract

Ophiorrhiza jacobii (Rubiaceae) is described as a new species from Western Ghats, Kerala, India. The new species is similar to O. pseudofasciculata in its pubescent habit, densely pubescent terminal capitate cyme with linear lanceolate bract and bracteoles, stipules with bifid apex, etc., but differs in having decumbent stem, ovate to broadly ovate stipules, shorter peduncle, pink corolla without white patches and with bulged throat of the tube, glabrous style of long-styled flower and obcordate capsules. A detailed description, distribution, ecology, phenology and relevant taxonomic notes are provided along with colour illustrations.