Orania zheae (Oranieae, Arecoideae, Arecaceae), a new species from the Philippines, with notes on another slender-stemmed species

Abstract

Orania zheae Adorador & Fernando, a new, slender-stemmed species is described from Samar Island, Philippines. The new combination Orania sibuyanensis (Becc.) Adorador & Fernando is also made, elevating this taxon from variety to species level. The latter species, endemic to Sibuyan Island, is segregated from Orania palindan (Blanco) Merr. (sensu Keim & Dransfield 2012). Both Orania zheae and Orania sibuyanensis are slender undergrowth palms with proportionately diminutive inflorescences borne on very slender peduncles and yellowish globose fruits. But the two species differ from each other in their habitat preferences, reproductive strategies, and in details of flower morphology. Complete descriptions with relevant notes are provided to these two taxa and a determination key to the five Philippine species of Orania is presented.