Synopsis Of The Brazilian Genus Symphyllophyton (Gentianaceae) With Four New Species

Symphyllophyton (Gentianaceae) is characterized by autotrophic herbs, with tetramerous flowers didynamous stamens, filaments attached to the distal portion of the corolla tube and connate-perfoliate or free leaves. The finding of a new population in the Brazilian State of Goias inspired a detailed and unprecedented study of the genus, which lead to the discovery of four new species in different States and to the repositioning of Schultesia sucreana within the genus, thus elevating the known number of species from two to seven. A lectotype is designated for the genus. Descriptions, illustrations, and an identification key are provided along with notes on ecology and conservation.