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Published on: July 11, 2025
A molecular phylogeny and classification of Bignoniaceae
Richard G Olmstead1, Michelle L Zjhra, Lúcia G Lohmann
1Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195 USA.
American Journal of Botany
|May 31, 2011
Summary
Phylogenetic analysis of Bignoniaceae reveals eight tribes, resurrects two, and redefines Tecomeae. This woody plant family likely originated in the Neotropics with multiple Old World dispersals.
Area of Science:
- Botany
- Plant Systematics
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Bignoniaceae are diverse woody plants (trees, shrubs, lianas) globally distributed in tropical and temperate regions.
- Previous classifications of Bignoniaceae lacked robust phylogenetic resolution, necessitating revision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To infer evolutionary relationships within the Bignoniaceae family using chloroplast DNA sequences.
- To revise the classification of Bignoniaceae based on phylogenetic findings.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analyses were performed using chloroplast sequence data (rbcL, ndhF, trnL-F).
- Parsimony inference was employed to reconstruct evolutionary relationships.
Main Results:
- Eight tribes are recognized: Bignonieae, Catalpeae, Coleeae, Crescentieae, Jacarandeae, Oroxyleae, Tecomeae, and Tourrettieae.
- Jacarandeae and Catalpeae are resurrected as distinct tribes.
- Tecomeae is redefined as a smaller, monophyletic clade, with other genera moved to larger alliances (Paleotropical and Tabebuia alliances).
- The family is inferred to have originated in the Neotropics, with at least five dispersals to the Old World.
Conclusions:
- The revised classification provides a more accurate phylogenetic framework for the Bignoniaceae family.
- Understanding the evolutionary history and biogeography of Bignoniaceae offers insights into plant diversification in tropical and temperate ecosystems.
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