Taxonomic notes on Sophora phulangkaensis, a new species of Sophora (Fabaceae – Sophoreae) from Thailand based on morphological and molecular evidence

Sophora phulangkaensis is illustrated and newly described here. The species shows similarities with its congener, S. exigua, by having an obovate terminal leaf let and up to 15 leaflets but differs in the floralparts. A morphological comparison between the two species is provided along with a discussion. The phylogenetic place- ment of then ewspecies is presented and discussed based on molecular evidence by nuclear (ITS) and chloroplast markers (matK). The results suggest that the new species is nested into sect. Rubriflorae, which includes S. exigua and S. huamotensis. The circumscription of sect. Rubriflorae is expanded after being redefined by our findings. In addition, the updated key to species of the genus Sophora for the Flora of Thailand is given based on recent specimen observations. Additionally, lectotypes for S. exigua, S. tonkinensis, and S. violacea var. pilosa are designated.

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