Cinnamomum mathewianum sp. nov. (Lauraceae) : A new species from Kerala, India

Cinnamomum mathewianum Remya, E.S.S. Kumar, Radhamany, Valsala et Jagadeesan, a new species in Lauraceae from the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is described and illustrated. The new species resembles Cinnamomum cuspidatum Miq. in many respects, but clearly different by the short trunk; betel scented coriaceous leaves with gradually acuminate apex, perulate terminal buds, longer inflorescence with dark maroon flowers, usual 2-celled anthers in all three whorls and the ellipsoid ovary with peltate stigma. It is named after Prof. P.M. Mathew for his valuable contribution to the field of Biosystematics.