16.6- 21.1.1

Stigmatodon enigmaticus D.R. Couto, Gonella & A.F. Costa

Publ: Phytotaxa 584(3): 209-212 fig. 1-2 (2023)

Type: BRAZIL. Minas Gerais: Conselheiro Pena, Serra do Padre Ângelo, Serra do Pinhão, campo rupestre, 1,300 m elevation, 2 May 2021 (flowered in cultivation in November 2021), P.M. Gonella 2965, D.P. Cordeiro, G.A. da Silva, P.R. Bartholomay, J.C. Ribeiro & L. Medeiros (holotype MBML)

Search images on Permanent URL

Distribution: Brazil: Minas Gerais

Habitat: a lithophyte on quartzitic rocky outcrops within the Atlantic Forest, above 1250 m. Elev.

Etymology: This new species was discovered in May 2021, when only sterile specimens were observed, and its vegetative characteristics pointed to Stigmatodon. However, when in flower, its red bracts and yellow sepals and petals, common in Vriesea and so far not reported for Stigmatodon, raised the question of its generic placement. This puzzling combination inspired the epithet, from the Greek aenigma meaning “riddle”, or “enigma”.

Phenology: Colected with flowers in October (in situ), and in November and December (in cultivation).

Stigmatodon enigmaticus