Resurrection of Sorbustapashana (Rosaceae) based on molecular and morphological evidence

Sorbustapashana (Rosaceae) from Taibai Shan, Qinling, China, has been treated as a synonym of S.tianschanica. Both species belong to a distinctive group characterized by white tomentose buds, relatively large flowers, and red fruits. However, these two species do not cluster together in the plastome-based phylogenetic analysis. Morphologically, S.tapashana differs from S.tianschanica by its persistent white tomentose on the peduncle, pedicels, rachis, both sides of the midrib on abaxial surface, its leaflets with 31-51 teeth on each side and much smaller corymbs and fruits. Therefore, S.tapashana is reinstated as a distinct species here.