The genus Capparis L. (Capparaceae) in Laos and Cambodia

Abstract

A taxonomic revision of the genus Capparis in Laos and Cambodia was undertaken. Based on examination of historical and recent herbarium collections coupled with field investigations, 25 species and 7 intraspecific taxa, all belonging to sect. Monostichocalyx, were recognised in the study area. Among these, a new species, C. averyanovii, and a new subspecies, C. acutifolia subsp. thamphae, from central and northern Laos are described and illustrated. A key to the species is provided, along with descriptions, synonyms, distribution ranges, autecological and phenological data, and 31 lectotypes are selected. When available, vernacular names and traditional uses of the species are also given, based on information from herbarium labels or bibliography. The occurrence of various taxa known only from type material is underlined. Based on the available data, C. diffusa and C. rotundifolia, two species formerly recorded from Cambodia, are excluded from the flora of the study area.