olyra amapana is described, illustrated and reported for the first time for venezuela. the taxonomic placement of this species within the genus olyra as well as certain ecological and phytogeographical aspects are briefly discussed. o. amapana is very similar to o. juruana, from which it can be distinguished by the presence of a lower number of smaller racemes. o. amapana, o. bahiensis, o. ciliatifolia and o. juruana are bambusoid species of completely herbaceous habit and fusiform, smooth and pilose female anthecia.
