The closely related neotropical melastomean generaPterogastraandSchwackaeaare revised, the species illustrated, and their distribution mapped.Schwackaeais maintained as a monotypic genus because it is readily distinguished from all other melastomes by its 8‐winged capsule. This weedy little plant occurs from Mexico throughout Central America, chiefly on the Pacific slope, to northern Colombia and on Cocos Island and grows in natural or man‐made savannas from sealevel to 2000 m altitude. Two species are recognized inPterogastraand one new combination,P. divaricataspp.glabra, is made.Pterogastrais characterized by distinctly 4‐ or 5‐winged capsules, unlike those ofSchwackaeaor any other New World melastome. The more widespread species occurs in Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Ecuador, and Peru at altitudes between sealevel and 2600 m in natural or disturbed grasslands. The second species is endemic in southwestern Venezuela and is confined to natural savannas at low al
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