Canavalia (Phaseoleae, Fabaceae) species in South Africa: Naturalised and indigenous

• In South Africa five species of Canavalia occur; contrary to current records, one of these C. bonariensis is not endemic but rather indigenous.
• The species referred to as Canavalia virosa is C. africana.
• Species of Canavalia are better distinguishable by reproductive characters, specifically pod length, seed colour, hilum length and to a lesser extent flower colour.

Results from a taxonomic study of the genus Canavalia in South Africa is presented. The genus belongs to the recently recircumscribed tribe Diocleae (previously subtribe Diocleinae). Canavalia is currently divided into four subgenera: Canavalia, Catodonia, Maunaloa and Wenderothia. There are four species of subgenus Canavalia in South Africa namely C. africana, C. ensiformis, C. gladiata and C. rosea. Canavalia subg. Catodonia is a New World subgenus but is represented by one species C. bonariensis, which has a peculiar disjunct distribution occurring in South America, South Africa and Madagascar. Canavalia subg. Wenderothia is a New World subgenus while C. subg. Maunaloa is restricted to Hawaii. The correct nomenclature, complete synonymy, distribution ranges, as well as some typification are provided.