Four new species of Herpothallon: H. capilliferum, H. polyisidiatum, H. subglobosum and H. viridi-isidiatum are described from southern China. Detailed taxonomic descriptions, ecological and chemical characters, and illustrations are provided for the new species. A key to all known Chinese Herpothallon species is also provided. Keywords: Arthoniaceae, East Asia, lichenized fungi, taxonomy, lichens.