Neuburgia novocaledonica, comb. nov. and the first record of domatia in the family Loganiaceae

Abstract

The New Caledonian species Couthovia novocaledonica Gilg & Benedict (Loganiceae) is supported as a species distinct from Neuburgia corynocarpa (A.Gray) Leenh. Neuburgia novocaledonica is different in having domatia on its abaxial leaf surfaces, two rings of hairs within the corolla tube, and generally obovate leaf shape. Therefore, the new combination Neuburgia novocaledonica (Gilg & Benedict) J. Molina & Struwe is hereby made. The presence and morphology of domatia on the lower surface of the leaves of Neuburgia novocaledonica are discussed. This appears to be the first record of domatium occurrence in Loganiaceae.