From Neglect to Recognition: A Taxonomic Review of Ardisia colorata G. Lodd. (Primulaceae: Myrsinoideae), Recollected From India After Two Centuries

ABSTRACT Ardisia colorata Loddiges et al. 1821 has remained largely taxonomically neglected, likely overlooked until the 21st century. Its absence from the printed editions of the Index Kewensis as well as from Indian floristic literature is notable. The name likely falls within the category of “gray literature” which historically escaped systematic indexing and was therefore easily overlooked. The epithet “ colorata ” was independently adopted by Link (1821) and Roxburgh and Wallich (1824), resulting in a complex nomenclatural situation. Consequently, the identity of Loddiges' species has remained obscure and no authentic material has been confirmed from India since its original description. Here, we reassess the identity of A. colorata G. Lodd. through a critical examination of its protologue, lectotype illustration, historical literature and newly collected material from Assam, India. Our findings demonstrate that Roxburgh's A. colorata is a later homonym of Link's name and is therefore illegitimate, while subsequent taxonomic treatments have frequently conflated these distinct entities. The recollection of A. colorata G. Lodd. establishes its recurrence in northeastern India and provides new evidence for a more precise circumscription of the species. This study settled the longstanding taxonomic ambiguity surrounding the species, particularly those influenced by William Roxburgh's taxonomic concept, and underscores the importance of re‐examining early nineteenth‐century horticultural taxa through the lens of contemporary systematic research.