CMT VIII 2011: This is a frequently collected species of Breonia, and it is somewhat variable morphologically. Breonia chinensis is characterized by its leathery medium-sized leaves, rather small stipules, somewhat flattened peduncles of medium length, and medium-sized infructescences with the calyx limbs rather small and pubescent internally. It is similar to Breonia lowryi, which has the calyx limb glabrous inside and 7-9 ovules per locule, vs. pubescent and 2-5, respectively, in Breonia chinensis. Breonia chinensis is also similar to Breonia louvelii, which has 1 ovule per locule. Breonia stipulata was included at least partially within the circumscription of Breonia chinensis by Ridsdale, at least as regards specimen annotations, but Razafimandimbison (2002) distinguished these two species based on several characters. Razafimandimbison (2002) reported this species from Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa, and Toamasina; a range extension into Toliara has been also noted in this catalogue but the basis for this is unknown.

The type collection of B. chinensis is from Mauritius but apparently was only cultivated there.