Rediscovery of the enigmatic Hypericum radicans (Hypericaceae): Insights into its affinities and sympatry with congeneric species in the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia

Hypericum radicans, an enigmatic species barely known from a severely fragmented specimen with uncertain provenance, was recently rediscovered in subpáramos and páramos from the department of Boyacá. Here, we amend and complement the original description, adding critical traits onto the diagnosis of the species, and confirming its status as a distinct one. Additionally, we discuss its affinities with four species having similar life-form and vegetative and reproductive traits. Specifically, we compare it with páramo and subpáramo chamaephytes with very short main shoots that radially branch forming cushion-like clumps. A key to identify the five species is provided along with photographic records. Notably, most H. radicans flowers and fruits exhibit four or five carpels, an uncommon trait on neotropical species of Hypericum, where three carpels usually prevail. Finally, we comment on the outstanding sympatry of Hypericum species in the high montane ecosystems of the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia, and argue against sympatric speciation as a major driver of the diversification of the genus in the northern Andes.