A new species of Cinnamomum (Lauraceae) from southwestern China

Field investigations in Guizhou, China, in 2020 resulted in the discovery of an unknown species of Lauraceae. Morphological studies revealed that it is a new species of Cinnamomum Schaeff. sect. Camphora Meisn., based on the large terminal buds, and alternate leaves with pinnate veins. It is distinguished from other species of sect. Camphora by the rather large perulate terminal buds with numerous bracts, larger flowers, oblong-elliptic linear tepals twice as long as the stamens, and the deep cup-shaped fruiting cupule. It is here described and illustrated as a new species, Cinnamomum guizhouense C.Y.Deng, Zhi Yang et Y.Yang. A key to distinguish it from related species in the same area is provided. In addition, we list the new species as Critically Endangered (CR), and suggest to conduct ex situ conservation, collect seeds and plant the species in botanic gardens.