Trichostigma guacharense (Petiveriaceae) a new species from the Colombian Andes, and a key for the species of the genus

A new species of Petiveriaceae, Trichostigma guacharense , is described and illustrated, and its morphological affinities with similar species are discussed. It has been found elevations between 1,800–2,150 m, in tropical montane rainforest of the Cueva de los Guacharos National Natural Park (CGNNP), located in the south of the Colombian Andes. The new species is a shrub, reaching ca. 3 m tall and shares features with two other species, T. octandrum and T. peruvianum . It can be distinguished by the lamina shape, presence of caniculate petioles, the number of stamens, and fruit shape. A morphological description, taxonomic comments, an illustration, a Lankaster plate, and information about its current conservation status are presented. An updated key to species of Trichostigma is also provided.