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.