Nomenclatural novelties and synopsis of Passovia (Loranthaceae): new synonyms, new combinations and reinstated species

Abstract

Passovia includes Neotropical mistletoes characterised by inflorescences composed of bracteolate triads, rarely monads with one bract and two bracteoles; small tetra-hexamerous flowers; and laterally excavated filaments with basifixed anthers. The genus occurs from Mexico to Bolivia and Brazil, including Jamaica. Twenty-four species were recognised, including four reinstated species: P. alternifolia, P. lepidobotrys, P. micrantha, P. myrsinites, and three new combinations are proposed: P. intermedia, comb. nov., P. lobaterae, comb. nov., and P. murcaei, comb. nov. An identification key to species, synonyms, and typifications are presented.