A revision of the genera Kelleria and Drapetes (Thymelaeaceae)

Abstract

The generic delimitation of Kelleria Endlicher and Drapetes Banks ex Lamarck has remained controversial for 140 years. Data from taxonomic history, morphology and biogeography are reported here and the two genera are maintained as distinct. Eleven species and one variety of Kelleria are recognised, including the following new taxa: K. paludosa, K. tessellata, K. villosa var. barbata, K. croizatii and K. childii. K. multiflora (Cheesem.) Heads is a new combination, and K. patula Merr. & Perry is reinstated. Drapetes tasrnanicus Hook. f. is treated as a new synonym of K. dieffenbachii. In Drapetes one species, D. muscosus Lam., is recognised.