An unexpected new tree species from Gansu, China: Illiciumgansuense (Schisandraceae)

We describe the newly-discovered species Illicium gansuense ( Schisandraceae ), discovered in the Yuhe area of Giant Panda National Park, Gansu, China. Morphologically, I. gansuense resembles I. ternstroemioides and I. arborescens . However, the new species can be distinguished by its smaller leaf size, the larger number of tepals, tepal margin ciliate, and distinct flowering and fruiting seasons.