One of Kew’s recent discoveries was a remarkably distinctive orchid from South America with dark heartwood; thus, named ‘Black Soul’.
Aphelandra almanegra is related to the widely cultivated Brazilian Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa); however, this one is from Colombia.
New species like this help scientists better understand those relationships while also spotlighting the urgency of habitat protection.
Gratitude to the botanists documenting these rare and beautiful survivors of the wild.
Reference: Gallego, P.C., & Wood, J.R. (2024). Aphelandra almanegra (Acanthaceae), a new species from the dry forests of the Cauca River canyon in Antioquia department, Colombia. Phytotaxa 652(3): 208–216.