Key to the species in Nepal

1a. Inflorescence an open panicle to 14 cm overall, with side branches of similar length to main axis. At anthesis flowers 3–6 mm apart ....................................................................................................................................... N. thyrsiflora

1b. Inflorescence a compact raceme to 6 cm overall, rarely with up to 5 distinctly shorter branches at base. At anthesis flowers 1–4 mm apart. .................................................................................................................................................. 2

2a. Ovary villous. Leaves villous above and below, velvety to the touch. ........................................................ N. velutina

2b. Ovary glabrous. Leaves glabrous or sparsely hairy above and below, not velvety to the touch. ............... N. rubiflora