A new species of Lippia (Verbenaceae) from the Espinhaço Range, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

Lantaneae stands out as the largest lineage within the Verbenaceae, and advancing systematic and taxonomic studies within this tribe is crucial to clarify the circumscription of non-monophyletic genera and elucidate its species richness. In Brazil, the taxonomic knowledge of Lantaneae is still in progress, particularly regarding the genera Lantana and Lippia. Here, we describe Lippia aonae, a new species from the campos rupestres of the Espinhaço Range, Cerrado domain, in the north of Minas Gerais state. It is a subshrub 0.4‒0.6 m tall, with viscous and aromatic leaves, inflorescences with small bracts and corollas, and drupaceous fruits. A detailed description, illustrations, comparison with morphologically related species, and a geographical distribution map are provided for its recognition. Following the IUCN criteria, Lippia aonae can be considered as Vulnerable (VU).