No abstract

Lepidagathis dalzellianasp. nov., (Acanthaceae: Barlerieae), is described from Maharashtra, India. The new species is closely allied to Lepidagathis clavataDalzell. in appearance, but differs by long lanceolate, hairy bracts, and spatulate, oblanceolate to ovate-lanceolate glabrous leaves. Colored photographs and notes are provided to facilitate its distinction from closely allied species. In addition, we have designated the lectotype for the name Lepidagathis prostrata Dalzell.

We present a synopsis of a rare and little-known species of Distimake from Western India: a complete morphological description based on recent collections is provided, and nomenclature and typification issues are resolved. The fruit and seeds are described for the first time. With new morphological evidence and a full characterization of D. rhyncorhiza, the present study corroborates its placement in Distimake and supports its identity as a distinct species. The conservation status is assessed as Endangered but its distribution range is not yet fully documented and this assessment might be reviewed if more collections are made.

Lepidagathis mahakassapae sp. nov., a monocarpic and endemic species of Acanthaceae, is described from Western Maharashtra, India. The new species is allied to L. sabui from Konkan, Maharashtra, but differs by having oblanceolate acuminate leaves, pubescent terminal elongated spikes, large floral but small sterile bracts and lanceolate broader segment of the bracteole. The stems of L. mahakassapae grows up to 250 cm in length while a few other prostrate species grows up to this length. Illustrations and colour photographs are provided for ease of identification.

The new species Echinops sahyadricus is discovered and described from northern Western Ghats, India. It is endemic to the Maharashtra state and probably restricted to few high mountain peaks in Western Maharashtra. The new species is distinguished from the related E. echinatus by adaxially glabrous to sparsely elgandular hairy leaf surfaces, larger non‐cornigerous synflorescences up to 9 cm in diameter and numerous (19–24) glabrous phyllaries up to 27 mm long. An identification key to all Indian taxa of Echinops, illustration and colour plates are provided.