A SYNOPSIS OF THE GENUS BERLINIA (LEGUMINOSAE – CAESALPINIOIDEAE)

Abstract

Berlinia Sol. ex Hook.f. (Leguminosae – Caesalpinioideae) is under investigation with two main goals: (i) to delimit and describe the species, and (ii) to elucidate their relationships. Delimitation and description is now largely completed and is presented in this synopsis. The genus Berlinia is assessed as comprising 18 species. Keys to the species are presented and for each species a brief description, selected synonymy and specimen citations are given. A monograph of Berlinia including a full taxonomic treatment and the results of the phylogenetic investigation will be published later by the senior author.