Researchers have identified a new species of Aspidistra from the Huashuishan Nature Reserve in Yingde, Qingyuan, Guangdong Province, with their findings published in the international academic journal Taiwania on April 20. The species has been named Aspidistra huashuishanensis after its type locality, marking the first record of a new plant species in the reserve.
In 2017, researchers discovered large populations of Aspidistra on a hillside beside a stream in the reserve. After years of comparative sampling, monitoring, and morphological analysis, the extra-large-leaved plants were identified as Aspidistra daqingshanensis, and the small-leaved ones as Aspidistra minutiflora. A third intermediate morphotype, characterized by medium-sized leaves, has been confirmed as a new species.
To date, Aspidistra huashuishanensis is known only from the Huashuishan Nature Reserve. It is characterized by an urceolate perianth tube and pale purplish-red perianth lobes that are suberect or slightly reflexed. Its lobes are ovate-triangular, with acuminate or obtuse apices. Its stigma is densely covered with papillae on its upper surface, distinguishing it clearly from Aspidistra daqingshanensis.
The wild population of Aspidistra huashuishanensis is extremely small, prompting researchers to advocate for strengthened habitat protection. As an evergreen perennial, the species also possesses significant ornamental and ecological value, with potential applications in landscaping and horticulture.
Author | He Fengyu
Photo | Nanfang Plus
