Shirakiopsis  

Trees or shrubs, monoecious. Exudate (from cut stems) present, white. Unarmed*. Indumentum present, hairs simple (multicellular, usually coloured). Stipules free*, simple, unlobed, entire, not spine-like*, not leaf-like*, without glands. Leaves distributed evenly along stem, alternate, simple, unlobed, base symmetrical, margin toothed, blade not pellucid-punctate, upper surface without glands, lower surface with a row of strictly marginal glands; venation pinnate; domatia absent*; stipel-like structures absent*. Petiole short, without swellings or bends at base or apex*, without glands. Inflorescence with axis, terminal, raceme-like, with 1–3 female flowers towards base, upper part with many male flowers, the male part of the inflorescence often falling away later; bracts with a pair of spheroidal-elliptical glands, not leaf-like*, green; floral buds initially covered by large bracts; pedicels present, not articulated*. Male flowers: sepals 2–3, partially fused, greenish; petals 0; disc 0; stamens 2–3, free; anther without conspicuous modification, thecae extrorse in bud; pistillode absent. Female flowers: sepals 2–3, partially fused, greenish; petals 0; disc 0; ovary locules 2– 3, ovules per locule 1; styles 2–3, completely fused (stigmas free)*, stigmas 2–3, free, entire, not flat*, surface smooth*; staminodes absent. Fruit dehiscent or indehiscent, not sculptured, glabrous, greenish to brown; seed with a very small inconspicuous caruncle, or without caruncle, with no other covering or membranous layer; embryo flat, not minute, cotyledons leaf-like.

An asterisk * indicates a state has been assumed but not yet confirmed.

World Checklist: 6 spp.

With thanks to Hans-Joachim Esser (Botanische Staatssammlung München) for help with this genus.