[Species evolution of Chinese flos Dendranthematis]

Area of Science:

• Botanical studies
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) research

Background:

• Chinese Flos Dendranthematis encompasses various species with distinct historical and cultivation contexts.
• Understanding the relationships between different varieties is crucial for quality control and agricultural practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the historical background, current status, and primary cultivation regions of diverse Chinese Flos Dendranthematis species.
• To clarify the taxonomic and genetic relationships among key varieties.

Main Methods:

• Field investigations and on-site cultivation observations.
• Comprehensive literature review of historical and botanical records.

Main Results:

• Morphological characteristics of different Chinese Flos Dendranthematis species were clearly defined.
• Historical evolution and interrelationships of these species were elucidated, identifying Congju with Hangju and Boju with Huaiju.
• Chuju was confirmed as a distinct species, separate from Jiju and Qiju.

Conclusions:

• Established relationships between Congju/Hangju and Boju/Huaiju provide insights into cultivar development.
• Identification of Chuju as a unique species aids in targeted cultivation and processing.
• The findings are essential for improving the cultivation, processing, and quality standardization of Chinese Flos Dendranthematis.