The genus Smithia in South India is revised based on field and herbarium studies. A brief history of the genus along with a key to the identification of the South Indian species, updated nomenclature, detailed descriptions, illustrations, photo plates and notes on distribution, phenology and ecology are provided for each species. Status of S. conferta var. geminiflora is reinstated. Four names are lectotypified, namely, Smithia bodinierii, S. conferta var. geminiflora, S. venkobarowii and S. yunnanensis.