The Linear-Leaved Dracaena Complex (Asparagaceae) in Borneo, With 13 New Species

Abstract

The Bornean Dracaena are morphologically diverse, enabling the recognition of a highly distinctive group here referred to as the “linear-leaved Dracaena complex” which includes species with leaves that are grass-like with ratios of blade length to maximum width >10. The complex is represented by 16 species in Borneo, of which 13 are newly described. Important morphological characters used in species delimitation including vegetative growth (continuous vs. episodic) and leaf base (pinched vs. pseudopetiolate vs. broadly laminate) are illustrated and discussed. Furthermore, the name “Dracaena angustifolia” that was previously attributed to the Bornean taxa is shown to be erroneous. A key to the linear-leaved Dracaena of Borneo is provided.