A conspectus of Magnolia (Magnoliaceae) in Guatemala: novelties and conservation

Abstract

Magnoliaceae of Guatemala are summarized, and two new Guatemalan species from Alta Verapaz are described and illustrated. Two Magnolia occurrence records are added to the flora of this country. Magnolia archilana is similar to M. hondurensis, but it differs from the latter in having glabrous terminal twigs, petioles, spathaceous bracts, peduncles and carpels, broadly obovate leaves, longer peduncles and larger sepals, outer petals and polyfollicles. Magnolia tribouillierana resembles M. montebelloensis but differs from the latter in lacking branches below five metres; in having glabrous twig internodes, spathaceous bracts and carpels, more numerous leaf veins per side, longer longest peduncular internode, abaxially yellowish sepals, fewer spathaceous bracts and more numerous carpels. A key to species and a distribution map of native Guatemalan magnolias is also provided. Data on diversity, endemism, ethnobotanical knowledge and conservation are also provided. Using the IUCN criteria, conservation status of M. archilana and M. tribouillierana are here assessed as endangered (En) and critically endangered (CR), respectively. Conservation actions are urgently needed for the six Guatemalan magnolias faced with extinction.