Reinstatement of the independent specific status of Pyrenaria rostrata (Theaceae) from China

Pyrenaria rostrata (Theaceae) has been treated as a synonym of P. spectabilis var. greeniae, a variety widely distributed in southern China. However, critical observations on herbarium specimens (including type material) and living plants in the wild revealed remarkable morphological differences between these two taxa. Specifically, the differences in the shape of leaf blades and capsules, the indumentum on capsules, and the pedicel length indicate that P. rostrata should be treated as an independent species. We therefore reinstate the independent specific status of P. rostrata herein. A detailed description including the flower morphology of P. rostrata is also provided.