(Mazaceae), a new species from China: evidence from morphological and molecular analyses.

Utilising both morphological and molecular analyses, this study unveils , a novel addition to the Mazaceae family, discovered in Shaowu County, Fujian Province, China. The comprehensive description and illustrations provided here are a result of a meticulous exploration of its morphological features. While bearing a resemblance to , this new-found species is distinguished by three distinct characteristics: its stems are delicately soft, its leaves possess a membranous quality and the ovary is notably villous at the apex. Integration of molecular evidence, derived from the nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrITS) and three plastid DNA sequences (, and ), unequivocally supports the classification of as a distinct species. Notably, the molecular analysis positions it as a sister species to , underscoring the phylogenetic relationships within the genus . Our research not only introduces as a novel taxonomic entity, but also provides a nuanced understanding of its morphological differences and molecular affinities, enriching our comprehension of the diversity and evolutionary relationships of Mazaceae.