We present a reassessment of the genus Barclaya. This includes description, typification and distribution in tropical SE Asia of the eight species recognized. The two long time known and accepted species, B. longifolia and B. motleyi. The identity of B. rotundifolia has been clarified. Two species, B. hirta and B. kunstleri have been resurrected. Additionally, three new species, B. panchorensis, B. rugosa and B. wellyi are described. A chromosome number of 2n = 36 has been ascertained for all studied Barclaya species. The habitats are described, and their conservation status given. For each species, its habitat is described, and its conservation status given. Finally, six of the species have been found to be night-blooming.