A new species of Adesmia (Leguminosae: Papilionoideae: Dalbergieae) from the Atacama Desert

Abstract

After its description in 1825, the genus Adesmia increased from 9 to the 207 species currently recognized. Adesmia can be diagnosed by the herbaceous to shrubby habit, pinnate leaves, yellow flowers with free stamen, and the lomentaceous pods. It is the second most diverse genus of angiosperms in Chile, with more than one hundred species recorded to the country. While conducting systematic and taxonomic studies on Adesmia in the context of preparing a synopsis for the genus in Chile, a new species from the Atacama Desert was discovered. Adesmia mirabilis is described based on herbarium specimens and citizen science records and differs from morphologically close related species by the long spinescent inflorescence axis with persistent bracts. We provide illustrations, distribution map, complete description, and comments on distribution, conservation, and etymology.