A new gypsophilous species of Echeveria (Crassulaceae) from Guerrero, Mexico

Background and Aims: Recent botanical explorations in southern Mexico have led to the discovery of new species of Crassulaceae and gypsophilous flora. During an exploration near Tlapa de Comonfort in the state of Guerrero, an unknown Echeveria of the series Gibbiflorae was documented on gypsum outcrops. The objective of this work was to record its characteristics, describe it as a new species to science, and develop an identification key for the members of the series Gibbiflorae from Guerrero.Methods: Living plants of the new species of Echeveria were collected and documented. Specialized literature, protologues, and herbarium specimens of members in the series Gibbiflorae were studied and a morphological comparison was conducted. A distribution map was elaborated, and its conservation status was assessed according to IUCN Red List criteria.Key results: Echeveria jeivana is proposed as a new species of the series Gibbiflorae and is endemic to the state of Guerrero. It is similar to E. gibbiflora and E. grisea, from which it mainly differs by the presence of red nectaries with white base, entire and non-undulate leaf margins, and its occurrence on gypsum outcrops. Given its limited distribution and specific habitat, it is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) based on IUCN criteria.Conclusions: Echeveria jeivana contributes to the knowledge of Echeveria series Gibbiflorae and the gypsophilous flora of southern Mexico. It also highlights the need for further exploration and conservation of the gypsum soil ecosystems, which are centers of high diversity and endemism.