The reinstatement and rediagnosis of the madagascan genus Rhodocodon (Asparagaceae, Scilloideae), with validation and remarks on H. Perrier’s taxa

Abstract

The genus Rhodocodon is here reinstated based on morphological, biogeographical and molecular evidence. On the basis of the work presented by H. Perrier de la Bâthie in Flora of Madagascar, one subgenus and ten species of Rhodocodon are validated here. Furthermore, Rhodocodon madagascariensis and R. urgineoides are lectotypified, and Hyacinthus cryptopodus and Urginea mascarenensis are transferred to Rhodocodon. A complete morphological description for all 13 accepted species of Rhodocodon is provided, including data on biology, ecology and distribution. Furthermore, an identification key for the Rhodocodon species is presented.