On the identity and rediscovery of Hedyotis beddomei Hook. f. (Rubiaceae): a lesser known endemic species of Western Ghats, India

Abstract

Hedyotis beddomei Hook. f. (Rubiaceae ) is an endangered and little-known species, endemic to the Palghat hills in Kerala, India. The plant is known only from the type sheet collected by Beddome in 1872. It has been re-discovered from Elivalmala of Muthikulam forests, Palghat district after a lapse of 144 years. Detailed descriptions with colour photographs are provided along with its ecology and updated conservation notes.