Generic circumscriptions in tribe Vanguerieae (Rubiaceae) have been under discussion for a long time. Recent molecular studies, while providing new insights, have not yet solved all the problems. In this study, the taxonomy and phylogenetics of the genus Cuviera s.l. are investigated. On the basis of molecular and morphological evidence, Cuviera is restricted to a group of ten West and Central African species. Globulostylis, previously included in Cuviera, is reinstated as a distinct genus, with eight species from Central Africa. Both genera are revised; the latter includes three new species (G.dewildeana, G.rammelooana and G.robbrechtiana) and two new combinations (G.leniochlamys and G.uncinula). The close relationship of Cuviera s.s. and Globulostylis to Vangueriella is shown. Six aberrant species (most from East Africa) are excluded from Cuviera, but further work is needed before they can be confidently assigned to other genera. © 2013 The Linnean Society of London.