Submitted by amonpong.k on Mon, 07/06/2026 - 09:48
Taxonomic treatment of nyctanthous species of Kaempferia subgen. Protanthium (Zingiberaceae), with two new infraspecific taxa endemic to Thailand
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Issue

thnhmjournal vol20 no2

Authors

Nattapon Nopporncharoenkul
Ofice of Natural Science Research, National Science Museum Thailand, 39, Moo 3, Khlong 5, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
Weenussa Eakjamnong
Ofice of Natural Science Research, National Science Museum Thailand, 39, Moo 3, Khlong 5, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
Thunchanok Somnoo
Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand.
Kittiyut Punchay
Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, The Botanical Garden Organization, Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, 50180, Thailand

Abstract

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive taxonomic revision and species re-circumscription of the night flowering (nyctanthous) Kaempferia subgen. Protanthium in Thailand. Based on extensive morphological and phenological investigations, two new infraspecific taxa are described and illustrated: K. albiflora var. longiflora and K. noctiflora var. villosa. The discovery of K. albiflora var. longiflora significantly expands the known morphological boundaries of the species, characterized by possessing the longest floral tube (up to 10.5 cm) recorded within the subgenus and distinct linear to narrowly lanceolate oblong leaf blades. Concurrently, K. noctiflora var. villosa is distinguished from existing varieties by its robust upright habit, higher leaf number, and a densely villous indumentum on nearly all vegetative and floral parts. Detailed descriptions, geographical distribution, habitat, and phenology are updated for all nyctanthous taxa. Furthermore, their conservation statuses are reassessed according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, with both new varieties being provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR). Identification keys to the species and varieties within K. albiflora, K. grandifolia, and K. noctiflora are also presented.

Attachment

THNHMJ 20(2)-03_0.pdf

Keywords

Kaempferia albiflora
Kaempferia grandifolia
Kaempferia noctiflora
taxonomic circumscription
Taxonomy

References

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