Subgeneric classification in Iris re-examined using chloroplast sequence data

Phylogenetic relationships among the six Iris subgenera were reconstructed based on chloroplast sequence data using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. Previous studies indicated that the current subgeneric classification based on an intuitive interpretation of morphology was not concordant with evolution in Iris. This study more than doubled the number of taxa sampled and increased the number of molecular markers providing a more robust assessment of phylogeny. Iris subg. Nepalensis and subg. Xiphium were resolved as monophyletic, while subg. Hermodactyloides, subg. Limniris, subg. Iris and subs;. Scorpiris were not. The three monotypic genera, Belamcanda, Pardanthopsis and Hermodactylus, recognized by some workers were resolved within Iris with strong support. The three bulbous subgenera, sometimes recognized as distinct genera, were resolved within Iris. A preliminary subgeneric classification is presented.