A synoptic revision of the golden glories, genus Decalobanthus (Convolvulaceae)

Abstract

Eighteen species of Decalobanthus are recognized in this concise revision of the genus. Two new combinations are made and one new name is proposed to accommodate a change in rank. The genus is centered in Southeast Asia and Malesia, with outlier species in the tropical Pacific and one species that reaches the Neotropics; a single wide-ranging species extends from eastern Tropical Africa and Madagascar in the west to the Hawaiian Islands in the east. Each species is provided with a diagnosis, summary of the species' ecology, compiled vernacular names, and uses. Distributions are mapped based on herbarium voucher specimens. Where appropriate, typifications and nomenclatural problems are explained and comments on morphological variation and the need for further study are highlighted. Selected species are illustrated with colour photos of living plants. An index of numbered collections examined is provided to aid in specimen identification and herbarium curation.