Dispersed pollen and calyx remains of<i>Diospyros</i>(Ebenaceae) from the middle Miocene “Plant beds” of Søby, Denmark

Diospyros is a large genus of woody flowering plants with predominantly subtropical and tropical modern distribution. Fossils attributed to are mainly leaf impressions from Cretaceous Cenozoic strata across the Northern Hemisphere. However, it difficult assign such fossils because genus-diagnostic characteristics remain be identified. Unequivocal fossil records few, including staminate flowers in situ pollen late Eocene South Australia dispersed Here, we investigated calyx remains Miocene deposits Denmark using combined scanning electron/light microscopy approach. Tricolporate, relatively lalongate pori long bow-shaped colpi distinctive micro/nanorugulate exine ornamentation together persistent 4-lobed flower calyces allow unambiguous identification genus. Based on size calyx, describe new fossil-species Diospyros. Further, review record shows that, addition Australian record, was present China, western North America Europe during East Africa Central Asia Oligo-Miocene. Although still scanty, can contribute vital information for time-calibrated molecular phylogenies resolve conflicting biogeographic inferences. A thorough description historical biogeography its infancy. While initiate study here, development comprehensive picture will require further studies grains high taxonomic resolution.