Cinnamomum fasciculatum (Lauraceae), a new species from Guangdong, China

Cinnamomum fasciculatum, a new species from Guangdong, China, is described and illustrated here. Morphologically, it is most similar to Cinnamomum parthenoxylon in having sericeous terminal buds, glabrous branchlets, glabrous leaves, and fruits of similar shape and size. However, C. fasciculatum can be readily distinguished by its subterminal inflorescences (vs. axillary and lateral) and a later flowering season (June – July vs. March – May).

Phylogenetic analysis based on complete chloroplast genomes also supports that it is a new member of C. sect. Camphora and is sister to a clade comprising Cinnamomum mollifolium and Cinnamomum tenuipile. Following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, it is provisionally assessed as Data Deficient (DD) due to insufficient knowledge of its true population status in the wild.