MEHMUD, S. & ROY, H. 2020. Anatomical studies on Wallichia nana Griff., a wild palm of Assam, India. Reinwardtia 19(2): 97‒102. ‒‒ The present communicated research is a study based on the observation of free hand transverse section of leaf, stem and root and epidermal morphology of lamina in Wallichia nana, a species distributed in North-eastern states of India. Occurrence of paracytic stomata was noted on both surfaces of the lamina but comparatively more on lower surface. Number of metaxylem vessel recorded in lamina is single whereas, one to two in stem, petiole and roots. Presence of mucilage sacs recorded in the cortex of both petiole and stem.

We present new information on the diversity and distribution of palms, family Arecaceae, in Assam state, India. The family is represented in the state by 44 species belonging to 19 genera. Our study is based on surveys, a literature review, and a herbarium examination. Identification keys to genera and species, diagnostic characters, vernacular names, and updated information on the distribution, flowering, and fruiting of both wild and cultivated palm species occurring in Assam are provided.

While exploring the Barak valley of Assam, the rattan Calamus henryanus Becc. was collected from Cachar District which was found to be a new record to the Indian flora.  Taxonomic study of the species along with photographs and other relevant information is provided in the present communication.

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The new species Ophiorrhiza recurvipetala (Rubiaceae) is described and illustrated from Assam, India. The species is closely allied to Ophiorrhiza ochroleuca Hook.f. by having glabrous stem, glabrous leaves and axillary and terminal inflorescence, but differs in having leaf base attenuate, inflorescence 3-4 cm across, creamy white flowers, peduncle 5-7 cm long and pubescent capsule. Furthermore, the corolla tube of O. recurvipetala is hairy within the whole tube and the corolla lobes are acute at apex and strongly recurved. A detailed description, distribution, ecology, phenology, key to the species of Ophiorrhiza of northeast India and relevant taxonomic notes are provided along with a colour illustration.