Erythroxylaceae of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

Abstract

This study focuses on the Erythroxylaceae found in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Northeast Brazil. It is based on a morphological analysis of herbaria collections, as well as on a review of the relevant literature and on collections in the field. A total of 11 species were recorded for the state: Erythroxylum barbatum, E. caatingae, E. nummularia, E. passerinum, E. pungens, E. revolutum, E. rimosum, E. simonis, E. squamatum, E. subrotundum and E. vacciniifolium, of which seven are new records for Rio Grande do Norte. An identification key, descriptions, illustrations, habitat data, phenology, and species distribution are also provided.