The rediscovery of Carya poilanei (Juglandaceae) after 80 years reveals a new record from China
Despite having been first published in 1941, Carya poilanei (Chev.) Leroy is only known from two original collections in Vietnam and Laos; however, it has not been recollected since then and long suspected to be extinct by repeated deforestation events. Here, we report the rediscovery, and meanwhile the first new record in China, of this extremely rare gigantic hickory species at Yunnan province after 80 years. Three small patchy subpopulations were found with a total of about 50 adult trees have diameter at breast height (DBH) larger than 60 cm, together with some seedlings and saplings, but the fruit set was low. Based on multiple fresh materials, we present a revised morphological description of C. poilanei, and an updated distribution map for the species. In addition, we also provided a key for the hickories in China. Lastly, we suggest C. poilanei should be listed as Critically Endangered (CR) or Endangered (EN) species according to the latest IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.