1
Return

Phylogenomics from 481 nuclear genes and plastomes refines infrageneric classification and species delimitation in Chinese hawthorns (Crataegus, Rosaceae)

delete2026-04-12
delete0
PRE
AI
J
Jia-Xin Huang
S
Siyu Xie
Y
Yawen Zheng
D
Dai‐Kun Ma
X
X. W. Li
S
Shuai Liao
L
Liang Zhao
C
Chao Xu
王竞红 (Jinghong Wang)
J
Jin Cheng *
B
Bin‐Jie Ge *
J
James B. Phipps *
B
Binbin Liu *
DOI:10.1111/jse.70063delete
deleteOriginal
deleteOriginal request for help
deleteShare
deleteSave
Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Crataegus L. (hawthorns) is a taxonomically challenging genus within the Rosaceae family, showing extensive morphological variation, frequent hybridization, and polyploidy. In China, about 18 species are currently recognized, but their subgeneric classification and species boundaries remain unresolved. To clarify these relationships, we analyzed 481 nuclear genes, 73 plastid coding sequences, and a comprehensive plastome dataset for 17 Chinese Crataegus species. Phylogenomic analyses of both nuclear and plastid data yielded well-supported trees that refine the taxonomy and elucidate evolutionary relationships within the genus. All Chinese species are resolved within two subgenera, Crataegus subg. Crataegus and Crataegus subg. Sanguineae, although most currently recognized species are not monophyletic, reflecting complex reticulate evolution involving hybridization and polyploidy. Integrating phylogenomic, morphological, and cytological evidence, we provide an updated taxonomic synopsis of Chinese Crataegus, describe one new species, propose five new combinations, and designate 31 lectotypes. This study establishes a robust framework for future systematic, conservation, and horticultural research on this ecologically and economically important lineage.
Keywords:
Chinese hawthorns
Crataegus
morphology
phylogenomics
taxonomy

Journal

Journal of Systematics and Evolution cover
Journal of Systematics and Evolution
IF:
2.9
Papers:
1.3K
Citations:
2.9K

Organization

N
northwest a&f university
Scholars:
3.9K
Papers: 1.0K
Citations: 0
S
shanghai chenshan botanical garden
Scholars:
205
Papers: 109
Citations: 0
U
university of western ontario
Scholars:
363
Papers: 193
Citations: 0
B
Beijing Forestry University
Scholars:
2.1K
Papers: 747
Citations: 1.9W
C
Chinese Academy of Sciences
Scholars:
3.9W
Papers: 1.5W
Citations: 58.4W
N
northeast forestry university
Scholars:
2.7K
Papers: 839
Citations: 0
C
chinese academy of sciences
Scholars:
54.9W
Papers: 44.5W
Citations: 703
Cited Papers

Cited Papers

Citing Papers

Citing Papers