Convallariaceae is now Ruscaceae

[Linda Jennings]

Convallariaceae is now Ruscaceae
In Plant Systematics (2002), Convallariaceae, Nolinaceae and Dracaenaceae are all included in Ruscaceae as suggested by Chase (1995,1996,2000), Rudall et al. (1997, 2000), Fay et al. (2000), and Judd (2002). As stated “the monophyly of this family is supported by DNA sequences along with the lack of phytomelan in their seeds”.

phytomelan is defined as “opaque, black, carbonaceous substance that forms a crust on the testa of most Asparagles”. {Note: it has been suggested that Ruscaceae may be sister to Asparagaceae (Chase et al. 1995, 1996,2000; Bogler &Simpson 1996; Fay et al.
2000)}.

[Cereusly Steve]

Also the Eriospermaceae (Eriospermum) and the genus Comospermum are now included in the Ruscaceae.

[Steve H]

As is Sansevieria :-)

[Eric La Fountaine]

Well...

The Angiosperm Phylogeny Group has been busy at work. Both Ruscaceae and Convallariaceae are now part of Asparagaceae.

The recent publication of APG III has brought family changes. It has become difficult to track all the taxonomic changes in this forum. You may wish to visit the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group website for the most current taxonomic information.

NOTE: There was an error on the online publication which was corrected in the print publication. Alliaceae is now part of Amaryllidaceae. The two were reversed online.