Matisia and Quararibea (Bombacaceae) Should Be Retained as Separate Genera

Summary The genera Quararibea Aublet and Matisia Humboldt & Bonpland were described 214 and 184 years ago, respectively, and have been variously combined and separated during their history. This study indicates that Quararibea differs completely from Matisia by its reduced ovarian locule number (2 to 4, versus 5 in Matisia ), and, less definitively, by its short (to 4 mm), radially‐symmetrical staminal lobes. In keeping with the original generic concepts, these genera are easily distinguished and should be maintained as separate. An examination of the variability of macromorphological and pollen characters suggests that Quararibea is a relatively uniform derivative of a Matisia ‐like ancestor. The presence or absence of a spicy odor in dried leaves is not a reliable indicator of generic identity, despite previous claims that the odor was a practical means by which to distinguish the two genera.