Abstract
Stachytarpheta pradoi (Verbenaceae) is described as a new species based on fieldwork and examination of herbarium collections. Distributed in Bolivia and Brazil, it occurs in dry, open habitats, including sandy and rocky plains at elevations between 400 and 560 m. The main distinguishing features of the species include densely hirsute-villous branches; leaf blades with an attenuate base, decurrent into petiole; narrow-cylindrical inflorescences up to 1 m long; linear or narrowly lanceolate bracts, shorter than or equaling the calyx in length, with the abaxial surface glabrescent and the margins conspicuously ciliate, and lilac or blue corollas. To address the longstanding misidentification of Bolivian specimens of Stachytarpheta pradoi as Stachytarpheta canescens, a detailed discussion of the taxonomic identity and geographic distribution of both species is provided. A preliminary conservation status assessment suggests that Stachytarpheta pradoi can be treated as Endangered (EN).
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