Eremitis afimbriata and E. magnifica (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Olyreae): two remarkable new species from Brazil and a first record of blue iridescence in bamboo leaves

Two new species belonging to the herbaceous bamboo genus Eremitis (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) are herein described as E. afimbriata and E. magnifica. We discuss the morphological characters and SEM leaf epidermis patterns that distinguish the new species and compare them to E. parviflora, the only species currently accepted in this genus. An identification key for the species is provided. Both new species display blue iridescence in their leaf blades, the first time this is recorded in bamboos. These new taxa are only known from their type localities, both from Atlantic Forest in Southern Brazil, the first one from Southern Espirito Santo and the second from Eastern Minas Gerais. They are restricted to semi-deciduous seasonal forests and are considered critically endangered according to the IUCN criteria, while E. parviflora, restricted to Bahia, occurs in distinct forest types throughout its distribution area.