Notes on Basisperma lanceolata C.T. White (Myrtaceae).

Abstract

A full flower description of Basisperma lanceolata is given for the first time; notes are given on germination and seedling growth and on the possible relationships of the genus to other myrtaceous genera.

New taxa of rainforest Myrtaceae from northern Queensland

“…The fruit is somewhat similar to that of the monotypic Basisperma in that the capsule is two-valved, much exserted, and contains a single seed. However, a study of specimens and published descriptions of B. lanceolatum (White 1942, Foreman 1978) revealed a number of major differences: the leaves are opposite or irregularly tern ate and have a definite intramarginal vein; the inflorescence is a dichasium; the ovules are scattered on the placenta; the fruit is small and subglobose, rounded at the summit and looks Pittosporum-like when fully opened, and the testa is described as red and subcarnose. In addition, the embryo, judging from the illustration of the seed in Foreman's paper, could be quite different.…”

“…The exact relationships of Basisperma are still unclear; it has been suggested by Briggs and Johnson (1979) that its affinities lie with the 'Kania alliance' but this has been disputed (Wilson 1982) and a relationship with Ristantia suggested (Wilson & Waterhouse 1982). The question of the relationships of Basisperma cannot be completely resolved until the precise arrangement of the cotyledons in its embryo can be determined; Foreman (1978) merely states that they are folded. The generic name is derived from mitra (a cap or turban), referring to the shape of the exserted capsule, and the suffix -antia alluding to the relationship with Ristantia.…”