Acilepis

Acilepis is a genus of flowering plants in the aster family, Asteraceae. It is native to Asia, particularly the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of China. Species in this genus are generally herbs or shrubs.

The genus Acilepis was established relatively recently. It was segregated from the larger and more broadly defined Vernonia genus based on morphological and molecular evidence. This reclassification reflects a better understanding of the evolutionary relationships within the Asteraceae family.

Acilepis species are characterized by specific features related to their inflorescence, phyllaries (bracts surrounding the flower heads), and achenes (seeds). Details can vary between different species within the genus. Generally, they possess heads of disc florets (tubular flowers), typical of the Vernonieae tribe.

The plants in this genus are ecologically significant as components of their native ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity and playing a role in plant-insect interactions. Some species may have traditional uses in local medicine, though detailed ethnobotanical research is often limited.

The circumscription and taxonomic status of Acilepis and related genera within the Vernonieae tribe can be subject to ongoing revisions based on new research findings. Further research, particularly molecular phylogenetic studies, is continually refining our understanding of these plant groups.