New generic record of Tirpitzia Hallier f. (Linaceae) for Laos, with the description of a new species

Abstract

Tirpitzia laotica (Linaceae) is described and illustrated from limestone karst in Vang Vieng District, central Laos, representing the first record of the genus Tirpitzia in the country. The new species is distinguished from previously known species in the genus by a combination of strikingly long inflorescences up to 15 cm long, glandular bracteoles and sepals, white corollas with yellow markings at the throat, and a 2-locular ovary. An updated key and a distribution map of the five species currently recognized in the genus are provided.