Global phylogeny and taxonomy of Artemisia

Abstract

Abstract Developing robust phylogenies and comprehensive taxonomies for big plant genera is crucial for unlocking plant-derived solutions to global sustainability challenges. Artemisia, a big genus comprising ~500 species, holds immense medicinal and ecological importance. Despite decades of efforts, establishing a comprehensive phylogeny and taxonomy for global Artemisia has remained a formidable challenge. Here, we reconstruct the most comprehensive phylogeny of global Artemisia to date (394 species) using a gigamatrix approach. We also analyze evolutionary patterns of 20 morphological characters of Artemisia worldwide to evaluate their taxonomic utility. Based on these findings, we propose a global taxonomy for Artemisia, recognizing 24 sections in 8 subgenera, and placing 99.6% of accepted species (502/505). This study provides a robust framework to advance understanding of the evolution and ecology of Artemisia, and to promote the sustainable utilization of its rich resources. Meanwhile, it introduces an exemplary case for taxonomic research on big genera in the genomic era.