A revision of Otacanthus Lindl. (Scrophulariaceae)

The genus Otacanthus is revised, integrating results of morphological, chem ical, and phytogeographic studies of herbarium specimens and living plants. Seven species and two varieties are recognized. One new species (O. fernan desii) is described and three new combinations (O, platychilus var. platych ilus, O. platychilus var. longifolius, and O. azureus) are made. A key to t he species is given, as well as descriptions, illustrations, ecology, distr ibution maps, and a citation of specimens. All species are endemic to south eastern Brazil (coastal region), with one species naturalized in other part s of Brazil, in the Mascarenes, and in the Seychelles.