Re-evaluation of the genus Babingtonia (Myrtaceae) in eastern Australia and New Caledonia

The validity of the generic concept of Babingtonia Lindl. adopted by Bean (1997a) is tested in the light of molecular and morphological data. Molecular analyses support recognition of segregate genera, none of which is closely related to the type of the genus, Babingtonia camphorosmae, a western Australian species. Two genera, Sannantha and Kardomia, are described as new and a third genus, Harmogia, resurrected from synonymy; new combinations are provided in the new genera. A fourth group, consisting of ‘Babingtonia’ behrii and its allies, appears distinct but, as a predominantly southern group, with numerous western Australian representatives, is not treated further.