Resurrection of Themidaceae for the Brodiaea alliance, and recircumscription of Alliaceae, Amaryllidaceae and Agapanthoideae

Abstract

SummaryFay, M. F. & Chase, M. W.: Resurrection of Themidaceae for the Brodiaea alliance, and recircumscription of Alliaceae, Amaryllidaceae and Agapanthoideae. – Taxon 45: 441‐451. 1996. – ISSN 0040‐0262.The family Themidaceae Salisb. is resurrected and recircumscribed. It consists of C. 10 genera of cormous plants principally from western N. America (British Columbia to northern Guatemala). These had been included in Alliaceae, as tribe Brodiaeeae (subfamily Allioideae), but recent molecular and anatomical studies indicate that the group merits familial status. Petronymphe is not a member of this group but rather belongs in Anthericaceae. Agapanthus is misplaced in Alliaceae and, despite its superior ovary, should be considered a member of Amaryllidaceae, as subfamily Agapanthoideae. Alliaceae, Amaryllidaceae, and Agapanthoideae are recircumscribed, and Tulbaghieae raised to subfamilial status.