Pyrus zhaoxuanii (Rosaceae), A new pear species from Danxiashan Mountain, Guangdong, China

• DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.254.138039
• Publication Date: 2025-03-28T16:54:26Z
• Authors: Xiao-Wei Yi; Ying-Yu Wu; Qiang Fan; Fang Chen; Zai-Xiong Chen; Bin-Bin Liu; Cui-Ying Huang

Pyruszhaoxuanii is described as a new species from Guangdong Province, China, within the genus Pyrus, specifically under P.subg.Pashia. Although it shares morphological similarities with P.calleryana, P.zhaoxuanii can be distinguished by its uniquely small, obovate, leathery leaves, which have an obtuse apex and short petioles. A phylogenetic analysis based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) indicated that forms independent branch Pyrus categorized in Oriental clade, Currently, this has only been recorded Danxiashan National Nature Reserve. Considering potential distribution population size, we recommend classifying Least Concern (LC) according to IUCN Red List classifications criteria.