History of infrageneric classification, typification of supraspecific names and outstanding transfers in <i>Curcuma</i> (Zingiberaceae)

Abstract

Abstract In this paper we provide a thorough overview of past attempts at infrageneric classification of the genus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae). As the recent results of phylogenetic analysis of the genus confirmed that previous infrageneric classifications are not tenable, we provide a revised circumscription of Curcuma with an outline of new infrageneric classification into three subgenera, C. subg. Curcuma, C. subg. Ecomatae and C. subg. Hitcheniopsis including lists of species to be included in each subgenus. Three previously recognized genera, Laosanthus, Smithatris and Stahlianthus, are sunk to Curcuma and two species previously recognized in the genus Hitchenia, H. caulina and H. glauca, are transferred/re–recognized to Curcuma. The previously proposed transfers of the monospecific genus Paracautleya, Hedychium scaposum (Kaempferia scaposa, Monolophus scaposus) and Kaempferia candida, to Curcuma are also confirmed. All connected nomenclatural innovations, corrections and outstanding typifications, inclusive those of infrageneric names, are effected in this paper. A list of excluded names originally described as members of Curcuma, but now accepted as members of other genera is also included.