A new species of Capparis (Capparaceae) from Cambodia

Abstract

Capparis glabrata, a new species belonging to sect. Monostichocalyx, is described from the Kampong Cham and Takeo Provinces of Cambodia. The new species is a shrub characterized by glabrous twigs, straight or slightly recurved stipular thorns, glabrous leaf blade with apex acute or rounded, serial flowers in supra-axillary rows, yellow petals, and ellipsoid, puberulous ovaries with a knob-shaped stigma. It is related to C. echinocarpa, a species occurring in Thailand and northern Laos. The affinities of the new species to related taxa are discussed and a key is provided for all species of Capparis known from Cambodia. The conservation status is provisionally assessed as vulnerable (VU).