[Objective] Pterocymbium macranthum Kosterm., a tropical deciduous giant tree, has recently been spotted in the border regions of China and Laos, the genus Pterocymbium R. Br. and species are new to China. The remarkable discovery is reported and suggestions for conservation are provided in the present study. Historically, the tree is only recorded in Southcentral Myanmar to Northern and Southwestern Thailand, the new record in China extends the known geographical range of P. macranthum to the northern edge of the Asian tropics and contributes to the knowledge of the tree flora both in China and Southeast Asia. [Methods] Morphological and anatomical observations of female specimens were conducted using a stereomicroscope, key taxonomic characteristics were recorded with a digital camera, and then descriptions of the genus were amended. Aided by drones, its domestic population size had been rapidly assessed, and its IUCN species threatened category was evaluated by interviewing the usage and timber trade of locals, together with our field experiences of Southeast Asia. [Results] Around 1 000 individuals were recognized in an area ca. 2 000 hm2, and it was evaluated as an IUCN vulnerable (VU) species. [Conclusion] The genus Pterocymbium R. Br. and its intragenus P. macranthum Kosterm. are both new to China.