The 16S rRNA gene sequence of a previously undescribed LL-diaminopimelic acid-containing coryneform bacterium isolated from herbage was determined in order to clarify the taxonomic position of this organism. A comparative sequence analysis revealed that the bacterium represents a new line of descent within the genus Nocardioides. On the basis of the results of a phylogenetic analysis and the phenotypic distinctiveness of the organism, a new species, Nocardioides plantarum, is proposed. The type strain is NCIMB 12834.