Hierobotana Briq., an intriguing monotypic genus of tribe Verbeneae (Verbenaceae).

Abstract

Hierobotana is a monotypic genus that belongs to tribe Verbeneae and is endemic to Ecuador. It is morphologically distinct from the other genera of Verbeneae in having only two functional stamens instead of four, as occur in most Verbenaceae. In the present work the relationship between Hierobotana and the other genera of Verbeneae is examined for the first time. Its single species, Hierobotana inflata, is described and illustrated and a key to the genera of tribe Verbeneae is provide.