A taxonomic revision of the genus Canscora in South India, and the erection of the new genus Canscorinella (Canscorinae, Gentianaceae) with two new combinations

The genus Canscora in South India is revised based on field and herbarium studies and in consultation with types and protologues. C. pauciflora, which was previously treated as conspecific to C. diffusa is reinstated while C. sanjappae and C. devendrae are synonymised under C. diffusa and C. stricta (= Canscorinella stricta) respectively. The present study supports the exclusion of two species of Canscora i. e., C. stricta and C. bhatiana resulting in the establishment of the new genus Canscorinella and two new combinations: Canscorinella stricta and Canscorinella bhatiana. The new genus Canscorinella is characterized by the presence of actinomorphic corolla and isomorphic stamens. This brings the number of species currently recognized for the genus Canscora to eleven worldwide, six ( 55 %) of which occurring in South India. Descriptions, photo plates and keys to the South Indian species of Canscora and Canscorinella are provided here.