Six pteridophyte species of five families and 12 spermatophyte species of 10 families are reported from Bolaven Plateau, southern Laos, as new records to the flora of Laos. Moreover, two new species, Sterculia bolavenensis (Malvaceae) and Wikstroemia bolavenensis (Thymelaeaceae), are described. For each species, voucher specimens are cited, photographs are shown and additional information including geographical distribution, ecology and taxonomic notes are provided.
A new species, Sonerila bolavenensis (Melastomataceae), from the Bolaven Plateau, southern Laos, is described and illustrated. Sonerila bolavenensis is easily recognized by its tiny stature up to 3 cm tall (including inflorescence), small ovate to rounded leaves 0.3–1.4 × 0.35–1 cm, petioles 0.2–0.8 cm long, and 1-flowered inflorescence. A vernacular name and preliminary conservation status are provided.
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