Myrcia machinazana (Myrtaceae), a new Amazonian species from southern Ecuador

Abstract

Myrcia machinazana, a new species from southern Amazonia in Ecuador is described and illustrated; additionally a distribution map is presented and its conservation status and relationships with other species are discussed. This new species is similar to Myrcia gigantifolia, but differs by its reddish to dark-brown indumentum on new growth (vs. new growth glabrous in M. gigantifolia) and dense panicles with compactly arranged flowers and fruits (vs. panicles lax, flowers and fruits loosely arranged in M. gigantifolia). A key to the Ecuadorian species of Myrcia is provided.