Salimenaea and Troncosoa (Verbenaceae, Lantaneae), Two New Monotypic Genera from Southern South America

Abstract

Salimenaea N. O’Leary & P. Moroni and Troncosoa N. O’Leary & P. Moroni (Verbenaceae), two new monotypic genera containing species historically treated under Lippia L. and Acantholippia Griseb., respectively, are described here. These new genera reconcile the taxonomy of tribe Lantaneae with the evidence so far reached by morphological studies and molecular phylogenetics. Consequently, the combinations S. integrifolia (Griseb.) N. O’Leary & P. Moroni and T. seriphioides (A. Gray) N. O’Leary & P. Moroni are here proposed for two species endemic to Argentina–Bolivia and to Argentina, respectively. Complete generic and species descriptions are included, plus a geographic distribution map, photographs, and line art illustrations. Additionally, the morphological features distinguishing the new genera from other closely related taxa are discussed, and a key to currently recognized genera of Lantaneae is presented.