Three new species of Evolvulus (Convolvulaceae) from Bahia, Brazil

The semi-arid region of Bahia is rich in species of Convolvulaceae, particularly in the genera Evolvulus, Ipomoea, and Jacquemontia. Field work in this region and taxonomic revision of Evolvulus section Phyllostachyi revealed the occurrence of three new species: Evolvulus altissimus, the tallest species of the genus, is a subshrub up to two metres tall; Evolvulus delicatus is a flexible branched species with small, stiff, and narrow pointed leaves; Evolvulus harleyi is a herb with glabrous or nearly glabrous leaves and a globose inflorescence.

These three species are described and illustrated. Their similarities with allied taxa are discussed.