Dicliptera polymorpha (Acanthaceae): a new pyrophytic species from northern Western Ghats, India

Abstract

A novel species, Dicliptera polymorpha, from the northern Western Ghats of India, has been identified and characterised. Dicliptera polymorpha is taxonomically distinct, due to its unique inflorescence form among Indian species, with inflorescence units (cymules) developing into spicate inflorescences. This species also stands out as the sole Indian representative of this genus with a documented pyrophytic habit and precocious flowering during the summer, following the typical flowering in the post-monsoon season. Comprehensive information on the habitat, geographic distribution and conservation status of the new species, along with illustrations, photographs and distribution maps, is provided.