##plugins.themes.huaf_theme.article.main##
Abstract
The genus Amomum is one of the largest genera in the Zingiberaceae family. A survey was conducted in the Saola Nature Reserve of Thua Thien Hue province to sample species belonging to the Amomum genus along 24 survey transects. The survey identified nine species, including four new additions to the Saola Nature Reserve flora checklist. Key morphological characteristics that are easy to recognize for Amomum species include recidal inflorescence that grows from the rhizome and fruits with wings or prickly structures. The Saola Nature Reserve is one of three special-use forests in Thua Thien Hue province that have the highest diversity of Amomum species, with nine species present. Species within the Amomum genus at Saola Nature Reserve have a range of uses, including nine species that produce essential oils, five species used for medicinal purposes, two species with edible fruits, and one species used as a spice. The distribution of Amomum species in the study area is influenced by two main geographical factors, with the Asian tropical factor accounting for 60 % and the Vietnam endemic factor accounting for 40 %. In the study area, Amomum species mainly inhabits streamside and secondary forests, which accounting for 100% , followed by primary forests (60%) and shrublands (40%).