A new species of Cordia sect. Gerascanthus P. Browne (Cordiaceae) to the Brazilian semiarid

A new species of Cordia (Cordiaceae) is described, Cordia rosangelae J.I.M.Melo, hitherto recorded exclusively in the Brazilian semiarid region. It can be readily recognised by its subcylindrical branches and, mainly, by its lax inflorescences, flowers with an obclavate calyx distinctly smaller than the corolla tube with a reddish stripe in the apical portion, corresponding to the extension of the lacinia, as well as by its corolla up to 5.0 cm long, unguiculate corolla lobes, flattened style, linear, with calluses stigmas and pyriform ovary. A distribution map with known occurrence records as well as data on the habitat, morphological diagnostic characters and reproductive phenology of the species are provided. A key to distinguishing C. rosangelae from the other species of Cordia sect. Gerascanthus from Caatinga domain is presented. In addition, the conservation status of C. rosangelae is preliminary assessed according to IUCN criteria and the species has been classified as Least Concern (LC).