Camellia zijinica (Theaceae), a new species endemic to Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China

Researchers have identified Camellia zijinica, a new species of the genus Camellia endemic to the Danxia landscape in Guangdong Province, China. This discovery was supported by both morphological and molecular analyses, including phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast genomes. While closely related to species like C. drupifera, C. oleifera, and C. fluviatilis, Camellia zijinica exhibits distinct characteristics such as glabrous young branchlets, fewer bracteoles and sepals, diverse leaf shape, and a midvein that is slightly raised with sparse or no pubescence. These traits set it apart from its closest relative, C. microphylla, which typically features densely pubescent branchlets and leaves. The study highlights the biodiversity of the Danxia landscape and contributes to the understanding of the genus Camellia, particularly within the section Paracamellia.

Lin, M., Ye, Q.-L., Zhang, Z.-J., Liao, W.-B., & Fan, Q. (2024). Camellia zijinica (Theaceae), a new species endemic to Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China. PhytoKeys, 237, 245–255. https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.237.114768