Astragalus wuqiaensis (Fabaceae, Papilionoideae, Astragaleae), a new species from Xinjiang, China
During an extensive botanical survey in Ulugqat Township, Wuqia County, Xinjiang, China—a region along the country’s western border that remains significantly understudied—Astragalus wuqiaensis, a new species in Astragalus sect. Cenantrum (Fabaceae) was discovered. This perennial herb is characterized by its free stipules, yellow flowers, lax racemes, a long-stipitate ovary, and membranous fruit valves, aligning with the diagnostic features of sect. Cenantrum and supporting its placement therein. It differs from other sect. Cenantrum members by its markedly smaller leaflets (2–8 mm × 2–5 mm). Phylogenetic analysis of nrITS sequences provides robust support for its sectional affiliation (BS = 94%, PP = 1). A detailed morphological description, diagnostic illustrations, and habitat information are provided to confirm its novelty.
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