A New Species of Justicia (Acanthaceae: Acanthoideae: Justicieae) from Northeastern Brazil

Abstract

Abstract—Justicia rubrobracteata, a new species from northeastern Brazil, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to J. aequilabris due to its shrubby habit, and terminal and axillary spicate inflorescences with red flowers. However, J. rubrobracteata is differentiated mainly by the shape and color of its bracts and bracteoles as well as an orangish macula in the corolla, and a torulose capsule. In addition, J. rubrobracteata is only known from northeastern Brazil, from the states of Paraíba and Rio Grande do Norte, while J. aequilabris is widely distributed in Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. A table with the main morphological characters of both species is included, as well as photographs, a key to species of Justicia for the states of Paraíba and Rio Grande do Norte in northeastern Brazil, a distribution map of both species, and conservation data for the new species.