Phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons of the Pedicularis siphonantha complex (Orobanchaceae) reveal a new cryptic species P. huiliniana from north-central Yunnan, China

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The Pedicularis siphonantha complex (Orobanchaceae) is characterized by its red, purple or pink, long-tubular corolla with a twisted, beaked galea. To date, there are more than 11 recognized species in this complex. Herbarium specimens are difficult to separate and identify by non-experts due to key diagnostic floral traits being lost during specimens preparation. In this study, a new cryptic species, P. huiliniana, is confirmed and described based on both phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons. This new species is the sister to P. milliana, but it can be distinguished from the latter species by several key characteristics: a relatively small middle lobe of the corolla lower lip, a flat corolla lower lip, a deeper anterior cleft in the calyx, and an applanate beak. Pedicularis huiliniana is endemic to Jiaozi Snow Mountain in north-central Yunnan, China, where it is geographically isolated from the Himalaya–Hengduan Mountains. Citation: Liu R., Sa R., Liu E.-D., Li D.-Z., Wang H. & Yu W.-B. 2026: Phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons of the Pedicularis siphonantha complex (Orobanchaceae) reveal a new cryptic species. P. huiliniana from north-central Yunnan China. – Willdenowia 56: 129–145. Version of record first published online on 17 February 2026.

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