Abstract: A genus belonging to the tribe Lecantheae Wedd. of the family Urticaceae, Metapilea, is described as new from Guangxi Autonomous Region. This genus is closely related to Pilea Lindl., and from the latter differs in its piatillate capitate inflorescences with oblong discoid receptacles and with numerous bracts and pistillate flowers borne on the adaxial surface of receptacle. Besides, it is also related to Lecanthus Wedd., and from the latter differ in its sessile pistillate capitula with conduplicate oblong receptacles and lacking involucres and in its neither cucullate nor corniculate pistillate tepals. Without doubt, these two advanced genera, Metapilea and Lecanthus, have both originated from the primitive genus Pilea.

Key words: Urticaceae, Metapilea, new genus, Guangxi