A taxonomic synopsis of Heterotis (Melastomataceae), including H. kupensis, a new threatened species endemic to Mt Kupe, Cameroon

We provide a synopsis of the African genus Heterotis (Melastomataceae), recognising seven species and including the description of a new species to science Heterotis kupensis Sv. & Cheek (Melastomataceae) which is only known from Mt Kupe in the South West Region of Cameroon. In addition, we select a lectotype for H. prostrata (Thonn.) Benth., second step lectotype for H. buettneriana (Cogn. ex Büttner) Jacq.-F&egravel. and create the new combination H. welwitschii (Cogn.) Sv. & Cheek to replace H. cogniauxiana (A.Fern. & R.Fern.) Ver.-Lib. & G.Kadereit synon. nov. Distribution, habitat, phenology, taxonomic notes, and preliminary conservation assessments following IUCN Red List criteria are presented along with a key to the species.