Phylogenetic Analysis of Eucalyptus Informal Subgenus Symphyomyrtus Section Maidenaria

Abstract

Eucalyptus informal subgenus Symphyomyrtus section Maidenaria includes 86 currently recognised taxa endemic to south-eastern Australia. Cladistic methodology and a morphological data set have been used to examine the phylogenetic relationships of these taxa and an additional two unnamed forms that may be worthy of taxonomic recognition. Maidenaria may be defined as a monophyletic group by the presence of oil glands in the phloem, although this feature is not unique to the group. Informal series Ovatae is paraphyletic, having been defined by plesiomorphic features such as petiolate juvenile leaves. Informal series Vitninales is monophyletic, defined by juvenile leaves that are opposite, sessi..