Review of the genus perama (Rubiaceae)

The nomenclatural and taxonomic history of the genusPerama Aubl. (Rubiaceae) is discussed. The major trends of evolution within the genus are characterized, and the sections of the genus are delimited. A new section,Diperama Kirkb. & Steyerm., is described. The distribution of the genus is updated, and centers of species concentration are indicated. A complete synonymy is given for the genus, and the type species cited. An artificial key to the species is given ; a new combination,P. parviflora (Standl.) Kirkb. & Steyerm., is mads; and three new species are described,P. harleyi Kirkb. & Steyerm.,P. irwiniana Kirkb. & Steyerm., andP. sparsiflora Standl. ex Steyerm. & Kirkb.