Phylogeny of <i>Lantana, Lippia</i> , and related genera (Lantaneae: Verbenaceae)

Premise Lantana and Lippia (Verbenaceae) are two large Linnean genera whose classification has been based on associated fruit traits: fleshy vs. dry fruits one seed-bearing units. We reconstruct evolutionary relationships the evolution of traits to test validity these for classification. Methods Previous studies plastid DNA sequences provided limited resolution this group. Consequently, seven nuclear loci, including ITS, ETS, five PPR were sequenced 88 accessions Lantana/Lippia clade three outgroups. Results Neither nor is monophyletic. Burroughsia, Nashia, Phyla, several Aloysia species included within comprising Lippia. provide a hypothesis biogeographic history in group their relevance Conclusions Fleshy evolved multiple times thus not suitable taxonomic characters. Several sections small monophyletic, but section Zappania broadly paraphyletic, making circumscription difficult. sect. Rhodolippia polyphyletic characterized by convergence showy bracts. Species Sarcolippia, previously transferred Lippia, The originated diversified South America, with at least four expansions into both Central America Caribbean Africa. types occur sister clades, rendering any taxonomy that retains either genus similar its current impossible.