Tayloriga

Tayloriga is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. In botanical literature it is described as comprising two species that are endemic to tropical montane forests of the equatorial region. The genus name honors a botanist with the surname Taylor for contributions to tropical flora.

Description: Members of Tayloriga are herbaceous perennials that reach roughly 40 to 90 cm in height. They have simple, often elliptic leaves with coarse serrations. Each inflorescence is a capitulum with bright yellow ray florets surrounding a central cluster of disk florets. The fruits are dry achenes with a small pappus that aids wind dispersal.

Species: Two species are currently recognized. Tayloriga alba produces white-to-cream ray florets and tends to occur on higher, shadier slopes. Tayloriga aurea has golden-yellow rays and is found at slightly lower elevations. Both species share habitat preferences, including cool, moist soil and partial shade.

Distribution and ecology: Tayloriga species occupy understory to open slopes in montane forests, often along streams. Pollination is by bees and butterflies, while seed dispersal is primarily wind-driven due to the pappus. The genus faces threats from deforestation and habitat fragmentation and is not widely cultivated beyond specialist horticultural collections.

Taxonomy and status: In regional floras Tayloriga is treated as a distinct genus within Asteraceae, though some sources discuss close affinities with related genera. The taxonomy remains a matter of ongoing study as more field data become available. See also lists of genera in Asteraceae and tropical montane flora.