Impatiens sahyadrica sp. nov (Balsaminaceae)—a new species from southern Western Ghats, India

Abstract

Impatiens sahyadrica (Balsaminaceae), a new scapigerous balsam from Silent Valley National Park, southern Western Ghats is described and illustrated. The new species is phenotypically similar to I. lawsonii. However, it differs from the latter in its smaller flowers; oblong, free upwardly curved basal lobes of the lateral united petals; smaller dorsal auricle and curved spur. A detailed description, notes on distribution, biotic association and relevant taxonomic notes are provided along with colour photographs and illustrations.