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Background: Scutellaria, a sub-cosmopolitan genus, stands as one of the Lamiaceae family's largest genera, encompassing approximately 500 species found in both temperate and tropical montane regions. Recognized for its significant medicinal properties, this genus has garnered attention as a research focus, showcasing anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective qualities. Additionally, it finds application in agriculture and horticulture. Comprehending Scutellaria's taxonomy is pivotal for its effective utilization and conservation. However, the current taxonomic frameworks, primarily based on morphological characteristics, are inadequate. Despite several phylogenetic studies, the species relationships and delimitations remain ambiguous, leaving the genus without a stable and reliable classification system. Results: This study analyzed 234 complete chloroplast genomes, comprising 220 new and 14 previously published sequences across 206 species, subspecies, and varieties worldwide. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using six data matrices through Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference, resulting in a robustly supported phylogenetic framework for Scutellaria. We propose three subgenera, recommending the elevation of Section Anaspis to subgeneric rank and the merging of Sections Lupulinaria and Apeltanthus. The circumscription of Subgenus Apeltanthus and Section Perilomia needs to be reconsidered. Comparative analysis of chloroplast genomes highlighted the IR/SC boundary feature as a significant taxonomic indicator. We identified a total of 758 SSRs, 558 longer repetitive sequences, and ten highly variable regions, including trnK–rps16, trnC–petN, petN–psbM, accD–psaI, petA–psbJ, rpl32–trnL, ccsA–ndhD, rps15–ycf1, ndhF, and ycf1. These findings serve as valuable references for future research on species identification, phylogeny, and population genetics. Conclusions: The phylogeny of Scutellaria, based on the most comprehensive sample collection to date and complete chloroplast genome analysis, has significantly enhanced our understanding of its infrageneric relationships. The extensive examination of chloroplast genome characteristics establishes a solid foundation for the future development and utilization of Scutellaria, an important medicinal plant globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nekemias grossedentata (N. grossedentata) is a medicinal and edible plant. The young leaves and tender stems are specifically utilized to manufacture vine tea, which is traditionally employed in the treatment of conditions such as the common cold fever, sore throat, jaundice hepatitis, and other ailments. The morphologically of N. grossedentata similar to Nekemias cantoniensis (N. cantoniensis) and Nekemias megalophylla (N. megalophylla), which lead to a chaotic market supply. Numerious studies have confirmed that chloroplast genomes and chromatography play important role in plant classification. Here, the whole chloroplast (cp) genomes of the three Nekemias species were sequenced in Illumina sequencing platform. Meanwhile, their chromatographic fingerprints have constructed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The annotation results demonstrated that the three chloroplast genomes were typical quadripartite structures, with lengths of 162,147 bp (N. grossedentata), 161,981 bp (N. megalophylla), and 162,500 bp (N. cantoniensis), respectively. A total of 89 (N. grossedentata) /86 (N. megalophylla and N. cantoniensis) protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA gene and 8 rRNA genes were annotated. The IR/SC boundary regions were relatively conserved across the three species, although three regions (rps19-rpl2, rpl32-trnL-UAG, ccsA-ndhD) exhibited nucleotide diversity values (Pi) of variable sites higher than 1%. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that N. grossedentata had a closer genetic relationship with N. megalophylla than that of N. cantoniensis. Moreover, the chromatographic fingerprints revealed that the main functional components and genetic relatedness of three species were highly similar with their morphological results. In conclusion, N. grossedentata and N. megalophylla can be consider as the origin plants of vine tea. This study provides appropriate information for species identification, phylogeny, quality assessment of three medicinal plants of the genus Nekemias and will contribute to the standardization of vine tea raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesembryanthemum cordifolium, a perennial plant with crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) in the Aizoaceae family, has significant ornamental and medicinal values. In this study, we reported the first complete chloroplast genome sequence of this species. The total genome size was 153,734 bp in length, including a large single-copy (LSC) region of 85,692 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,212 bp, and a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 24,915 bp by each. The overall GC content of the M. cordifolium chloroplast genome was 37.08%. The genome encodes 131 genes, comprising 87 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 36 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), and eight ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs). Phylogenetic analysis shows this species was relatively close to M. crystallinum. This chloroplast genome sequence will be valuable for species discrimination and for understanding phylogenetic relationships within the genus Mesembryanthemum.

Abstract Background Scutellaria, a sub-cosmopolitan genus, stands as one of the Lamiaceae family’s largest genera, encompassing approximately 500 species found in both temperate and tropical montane regions. Recognized for its significant medicinal properties, this genus has garnered attention as a research focus, showcasing anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective qualities. Additionally, it finds application in agriculture and horticulture. Comprehending Scutellaria’s taxonomy is pivotal for its effective utilization and conservation. However, the current taxonomic frameworks, primarily based on morphological characteristics, are inadequate. Despite several phylogenetic studies, the species relationships and delimitations remain ambiguous, leaving the genus without a stable and reliable classification system. Results This study analyzed 234 complete chloroplast genomes, comprising 220 new and 14 previously published sequences across 206 species, subspecies, and varieties worldwide. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using six data matrices through Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference, resulting in a robustly supported phylogenetic framework for Scutellaria. We propose three subgenera, recommending the elevation of Section Anaspis to subgeneric rank and the merging of Sections Lupulinaria and Apeltanthus. The circumscription of Subgenus Apeltanthus and Section Perilomia needs to be reconsidered. Comparative analysis of chloroplast genomes highlighted the IR/SC boundary feature as a significant taxonomic indicator. We identified a total of 758 SSRs, 558 longer repetitive sequences, and ten highly variable regions, including trnK–rps16, trnC–petN, petN–psbM, accD–psaI, petA–psbJ, rpl32–trnL, ccsA–ndhD, rps15–ycf1, ndhF, and ycf1. These findings serve as valuable references for future research on species identification, phylogeny, and population genetics. Conclusions The phylogeny of Scutellaria, based on the most comprehensive sample collection to date and complete chloroplast genome analysis, has significantly enhanced our understanding of its infrageneric relationships. The extensive examination of chloroplast genome characteristics establishes a solid foundation for the future development and utilization of Scutellaria, an important medicinal plant globally.

Abstract Nekemias grossedentata (N. grossedentata) is a medicinal and edible plant. The young leaves and tender stems are specifically utilized to manufacture vine tea, which is traditionally employed in the treatment of conditions such as the common cold fever, sore throat, jaundice hepatitis, and other ailments. The morphologically of N. grossedentata similar to Nekemias cantoniensis (N. cantoniensis) and Nekemias megalophylla (N. megalophylla), which lead to a chaotic market supply. Numerious studies have confirmed that chloroplast genomes and chromatography play important role in plant classification. Here, the whole chloroplast (cp) genomes of the three Nekemias species were sequenced in Illumina sequencing platform. Meanwhile, their chromatographic fingerprints have constructed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The annotation results demonstrated that the three chloroplast genomes were typical quadripartite structures, with lengths of 162,147 bp (N. grossedentata), 161,981 bp (N. megalophylla), and 162,500 bp (N. cantoniensis), respectively. A total of 89 (N. grossedentata) /86 (N. megalophylla and N. cantoniensis) protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA gene and 8 rRNA genes were annotated. The IR/SC boundary regions were relatively conserved across the three species, although three regions (rps19-rpl2, rpl32-trnL-UAG, ccsA-ndhD) exhibited nucleotide diversity values (Pi) of variable sites higher than 1%. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that N. grossedentata had a closer genetic relationship with N. megalophylla than that of N. cantoniensis. Moreover, the chromatographic fingerprints revealed that the main functional components and genetic relatedness of three species were highly similar with their morphological results. In conclusion, N. grossedentata and N. megalophylla can be consider as the origin plants of vine tea. This study provides appropriate information for species identification, phylogeny, quality assessment of three medicinal plants of the genus Nekemias and will contribute to the standardization of vine tea raw materials.

The species of Carpesium lipskyi C.Winkl. 1998 is an important traditional Chinese medicine in China. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of C. lipskyi was determined and analyzed. The result showed that the complete cp genome of C. lipskyi was 151,244 bp in length, consisting of a large single-copy (LSC) region of 82,908 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,430 bp, and a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 24,953 bp. The overall GC content of the C. lipskyi is 37.68%. The species of C. lipskyi possessed 127 genes, including 83 protein-coding genes, 36 transfer RNA genes, and eight ribosomal RNA genes. The present study found that Inula is sister groups with the closest genetic relationship. The obtained knowledge could provide useful information for future phylogenetic, taxonomic, and evolutionary studies on Inuleae.

Bassia scoparia, an annual potherb belonging to the family Amaranthaceae, has been widely used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for over 2000 years. Herein, we presented its complete chloroplast. The chloroplast genome sequence was 151,278 bp in length with a 36.6% content of GC. The genome showed the typical quadripartite structure, comprising a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (24,353 bp) separated by a large single-copy (LSC) region (84,067 bp) and a small single-copy (SSC) region (18,505 bp). This chloroplast genome harbored 133 predicted genes, including 88 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that B. scoparia was closely related to B. littorea. This newly sequenced chloroplast genome not only enhances our understanding of the genome of Bassia but also provides valuable insights for the evolutionary study of the family Amaranthaceae.

Olea dioica Roxb, 1820 is a very important ethnomedicinal tree because of its medicinal properties and it belongs to the Oleaceae family. It is mainly distributed in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. However, the chloroplast genome of O. dioica has not yet been reported. In this study, the chloroplast genome sequence of O. dioica was sequenced using next-generation sequencing technologies. The complete chloroplast genome of O. dioica was 155,138 bp in length (GenBank accession no. PP048999), comprising a large single-copy (LSC) region of 86,048 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 17,816 bp, and two inverted repeat (IR) regions 25,637 bp each. The overall GC content was 37.8%. The complete chloroplast genome of O. dioica contains 131 complete genes, which are 88 protein-coding genes, 35 transfer RNA genes, and eight ribosomal RNA genes. A maximum-likelihood (ML) tree of O. dioica and 14 other species in the family Oleaceae suggested that O. dioica showed a close relationship with Olea brachiata.

Calystegia hederacea Wall. in Roxb. 1824 is a perennial herbaceous vine in the family Convolvulaceae and has several biological effects. Herein, we reported the first complete chloroplast genome of C. hederacea. The chloroplast genome sequence was 152,057 bp in length, comparing a large single-copy (LSC) region of 87,891 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 19,866 bp, and a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 22,150 bp. This sequenced chloroplast genome contained 126 predicted genes, including 81 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes, and the total GC content of the chloroplast genome was 37.79%. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that C. hederacea was closely related to C. soldanella. The chloroplast genome presented in this study will enrich the genome information of the genus Calystegia and provide deeper insights into the evolution study of the family Convolvulaceae.

Hydrocotyle vulgaris is a perennial wetland clonal plant in the Araliaceae family, which was introduced to China as an ornamental plant in the 1990s. Although H. vulgaris is now considered a potential invasiveness species in China, it also plays a significant role in the remediation of water pollution. Here, we reported its complete chloroplast genome and analyzed the basic characteristics. The chloroplast genome was 153,165 bp in length, including a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 25,072 bp separated by a large single-copy (LSC) region of 84,291 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,730 bp. The H. vulgaris chloroplast genome contained 132 predicted genes, and its overall GC content was 37.60%. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that H. vulgaris was closely related to H. verticillata. The H. vulgaris chloroplast genome presented in this study will lay a foundation for further genetic and genomic studies of the genus Hydrocotyle.

The species of Carpesium lipskyi C.Winkl. 1998 is an important traditional Chinese medicine in China. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of C. lipskyi was determined and analyzed. The result showed that the complete cp genome of C. lipskyi was 151,244 bp in length, consisting of a large single-copy (LSC) region of 82,908 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,430 bp, and a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 24,953 bp. The overall GC content of the C. lipskyi is 37.68%. The species of C. lipskyi possessed 127 genes, including 83 protein-coding genes, 36 transfer RNA genes, and eight ribosomal RNA genes. The present study found that Inula is sister groups with the closest genetic relationship. The obtained knowledge could provide useful information for future phylogenetic, taxonomic, and evolutionary studies on Inuleae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olea dioica Roxb, 1820 is a very important ethnomedicinal tree because of its medicinal properties and it belongs to the Oleaceae family. It is mainly distributed in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. However, the chloroplast genome of O. dioica has not yet been reported. In this study, the chloroplast genome sequence of O. dioica was sequenced using next-generation sequencing technologies. The complete chloroplast genome of O. dioica was 155,138 bp in length (GenBank accession no. PP048999), comprising a large single-copy (LSC) region of 86,048 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 17,816 bp, and two inverted repeat (IR) regions 25,637 bp each. The overall GC content was 37.8%. The complete chloroplast genome of O. dioica contains 131 complete genes, which are 88 protein-coding genes, 35 transfer RNA genes, and eight ribosomal RNA genes. A maximum-likelihood (ML) tree of O. dioica and 14 other species in the family Oleaceae suggested that O. dioica showed a close relationship with Olea brachiata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bassia scoparia, an annual potherb belonging to the family Amaranthaceae, has been widely used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for over 2000 years. Herein, we presented its complete chloroplast. The chloroplast genome sequence was 151,278 bp in length with a 36.6% content of GC. The genome showed the typical quadripartite structure, comprising a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (24,353 bp) separated by a large single-copy (LSC) region (84,067 bp) and a small single-copy (SSC) region (18,505 bp). This chloroplast genome harbored 133 predicted genes, including 88 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that B. scoparia was closely related to B. littorea. This newly sequenced chloroplast genome not only enhances our understanding of the genome of Bassia but also provides valuable insights for the evolutionary study of the family Amaranthaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractLycium qingshuiheense is a typical drought and salt-alkali-tolerant plant, which has been added to the new species of Lycium in recent years. Here, we first sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of L. qingshuiheense to investigate its evolutionary relationship within the family Solanaceae. Results suggested that the circular complete chloroplast genome of L. qingshuiheense was 154,945 bp in length, including a large single-copy (LSC) of 85,930 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) of 18,203 bp, and two inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,406 bp. The GC content accounts for 37.90% and annotated 131 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, eight rRNA genes, and 37 tRNA genes. A neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree revealed that L. qingshuiheense was a sister species to L. ruthenicum. Our study provides a new insight into the systematic evolution of Lycium in the Solanaceae family.

AbstractPlumbago zeylanica L. 1753 is a medicinally-important herb in family Plumbaginaceae. In this study, we assembled and reported the complete chloroplast genome of P. zeylanica. The plastome of P. zeylanica was 169,178 bp, including a large single-copy region of 92,135 bp, a small single-copy region (SSC) of 13,455 bp and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 31,794 bp. It contained 124 genes, including 79 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes and eight rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that P. zeylanica formed a close relationship with P. auriculata in Plumbago. The first complete chloroplast genome report of P. zeylanica providing an opportunity to explore the genetic diversity, and would be also helpful in the species identification and conservation.

AbstractEremurus zoae Vved. 1971 is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Asphodelaceae and an endemic species of the Kyrgyz Republic; however, its complete chloroplast genome sequence has not been reported. Here, we investigated the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. zoae using next-generation sequencing. The cp genome was 153,744 bp long, with a large single copy (84,020 bp), a small single copy (16,766 bp), and a pair of inverted repeats (26,479 bp). The genome encodes 132 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the genus Eremurus forms a monophyletic group and E. zoae is closely related to E. chinensis. This study provides a molecular foundation for future phylogenetic studies of Eremurus.

AbstractMyricaria wardii Marquand 1929, endemic to the Tibet Plateau, is a perennial shrub with important medicinal and ecological values. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of M. wardii was assembled, and the phylogenetic tree was reconstructed to evaluate the phylogenetic location of the species. The results showed that the cp genome size of the M. wardii was 155,299 bp, which contained a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (26,150 bp), a large single copy (LSC) region (84,715 bp), and a small single copy (SSC) region (18,284 bp). The total GC content of the cp genome was 36.30%. A total of 128 genes were annotated, consisting of 83 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes and 8 rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis showed that M. wardii was closely related to M. prostrata. This study provides useful information for the conservation of this species and the phylogenetic analysis of Tamaricaceae.

AbstractTragopogon dubius Scopoli is native to Europe and western Asia and is considered an invasive plant in China. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of T. dubius was obtained using high-throughput next-generation sequencing technology. The whole chloroplast genome was 153,017 bp long with a GC content of 38% and comprised 130 genes (86 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes). Phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated chloroplast protein-coding sequences showed that T. dubius is most closely related to Tragopogon pratensis. This study provides valuable genetic data for further phylogenetic analysis and molecular identification of species in the genus Tragopogon.

AbstractPhilodendron hederaceum (Jacq.) Schott 1829, a species of the Araceae family, is a foliage plant of ornamental value. The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Philodendron hederaceum was obtained by the de novo assembly of NovaSeq 6000 (Illumina Co., San Diego, CA) paired-end short reads and Oxford Nanopore long reads. The complete chloroplast genome of P. hederaceum was 168,609 bp in length, with a large single-copy (LSC) region of 94,393 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 25,774 bp, and a pair of identical inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 24,221 bp. The genome contained a total of 129 genes, including 85 protein-coding genes, 36 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The phylogenetic analysis of P. hederaceum with 19 related species and two outgroup species revealed the closest taxonomical relationship with Philodendron lanceolatum in the Araceae family.

AbstractPulsatilla chinensis f. alba D. K. Zang 1993 is a forma of Pulsatilla chinensis (Bge.) Regel, the root of P. chinensis is traditional Chinese medicine called Pulsatillae radix. The biggest difference between P. chinensis f. alba and P. chinensis is that P. chinensis f. alba sepals is white. The complete chloroplast genome of P. chinensis f. alba was sequenced using the Illumina NovaSeq platform for the first time. The lengths of the genome, large single-copy (LSC), small single-copy (SSC), two inverted repeats (IRs), and GC content were 163,654 bp, 82,355 bp, 19,069 bp, 31,115 bp, and 37.2%, respectively. It had 134 genes, including 90 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. The maximum-likelihood tree indicated that P. chinensis f. alba had a closer relationship with P. chinensis. This study would provide a theoretical basis for the further study of Pulsatilla plants genetics phylogenetic research.

Cinnamomum burmanni (Nees & T.Nees) Blume (Lauraceae) belongs to the Magnoliids group and is mainly distributed in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The complete chloroplast (cp) genome of C. burmanni sampled from Indonesia was assembled and annotated for the first time in this study. The length of the cp genome is 152,765 bp with a GC content of 39%, and it consists of four subregions: a large single-copy (LSC) region of 93,636 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,893 bp and two inverted repeats (IR) regions (IRA 20,121 bp; IRB 20,115 bp) . The cp genome of C. burmanni encodes a total of 173 unique genes, which are 96 protein-coding genes, 19 rRNA genes, and 68 tRNA genes that can be utilized for advanced genetic and genomic studies of the species.

Clematis tomentella 2001 (Ranunculaceae) is a typical drought-tolerant sand-fixing plant in desert ecosystem in northwest China. To elucidate the phylogenetic status of C. tomentella and its related species, we determined the complete chloroplast (cp) genome and analyzed their interspecific relationships. The result showed that the cp genome of C. tomentella was 159 816 bp in length, including two inverted repeats of 31 045 bp, a large single copy region of 79 535 bp, and a small single copy region of 18 191 bp. 136 genes were annotated across the whole cp genome, including 92 protein-coding genes, 8 rRNA genes, and 36 tRNA genes, as well as the GC content accounted for 38%. Crucially, we found that the regions of psbE-petL, trnG_UCC-atpA, ndhF-rpl32, and rps8-infA were highly divergent, which could be marked as DNA barcodes for the identification of C. tomentella in Ranunculaceae. A maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree revealed that C. tomentella was closely related to C. fruticosa. Our results provide the references and implications for the phylogenetic study of Clematis in Ranunculaceae in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycium qingshuiheense is a typical drought and salt-alkali-tolerant plant, which has been added to the new species of Lycium in recent years. Here, we first sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of L. qingshuiheense to investigate its evolutionary relationship within the family Solanaceae. Results suggested that the circular complete chloroplast genome of L. qingshuiheense was 154,945 bp in length, including a large single-copy (LSC) of 85,930 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) of 18,203 bp, and two inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,406 bp. The GC content accounts for 37.90% and annotated 131 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, eight rRNA genes, and 37 tRNA genes. A neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree revealed that L. qingshuiheense was a sister species to L. ruthenicum. Our study provides a new insight into the systematic evolution of Lycium in the Solanaceae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eremurus zoae Vved. 1971 is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Asphodelaceae and an endemic species of the Kyrgyz Republic; however, its complete chloroplast genome sequence has not been reported. Here, we investigated the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. zoae using next-generation sequencing. The cp genome was 153,744 bp long, with a large single copy (84,020 bp), a small single copy (16,766 bp), and a pair of inverted repeats (26,479 bp). The genome encodes 132 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the genus Eremurus forms a monophyletic group and E. zoae is closely related to E. chinensis. This study provides a molecular foundation for future phylogenetic studies of Eremurus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plumbago zeylanica L. 1753 is a medicinally-important herb in family Plumbaginaceae. In this study, we assembled and reported the complete chloroplast genome of P. zeylanica. The plastome of P. zeylanica was 169,178 bp, including a large single-copy region of 92,135 bp, a small single-copy region (SSC) of 13,455 bp and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 31,794 bp. It contained 124 genes, including 79 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes and eight rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that P. zeylanica formed a close relationship with P. auriculata in Plumbago. The first complete chloroplast genome report of P. zeylanica providing an opportunity to explore the genetic diversity, and would be also helpful in the species identification and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tragopogon dubius Scopoli is native to Europe and western Asia and is considered an invasive plant in China. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of T. dubius was obtained using high-throughput next-generation sequencing technology. The whole chloroplast genome was 153,017 bp long with a GC content of 38% and comprised 130 genes (86 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes). Phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated chloroplast protein-coding sequences showed that T. dubius is most closely related to Tragopogon pratensis. This study provides valuable genetic data for further phylogenetic analysis and molecular identification of species in the genus Tragopogon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myricaria wardii Marquand 1929, endemic to the Tibet Plateau, is a perennial shrub with important medicinal and ecological values. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of M. wardii was assembled, and the phylogenetic tree was reconstructed to evaluate the phylogenetic location of the species. The results showed that the cp genome size of the M. wardii was 155,299 bp, which contained a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (26,150 bp), a large single copy (LSC) region (84,715 bp), and a small single copy (SSC) region (18,284 bp). The total GC content of the cp genome was 36.30%. A total of 128 genes were annotated, consisting of 83 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes and 8 rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis showed that M. wardii was closely related to M. prostrata. This study provides useful information for the conservation of this species and the phylogenetic analysis of Tamaricaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Justicia procumbens L. is a traditional medicinal plant that is widely distributed in China. However, little is known about the genetic diversity and evolution of this genus, and no genomic studies have been carried out on J. procumbens previously. In this study, we aimed to assemble and annotate the first complete chloroplast genome (cpDNA) of J. procumbens and compare it with all previously published cpDNAs within the tribe Justicieae. Genome structure and comparative and phylogenetic analyses were performed. The 150,454 bp-long J. procumbens cpDNA has a circular and quadripartite structure consisting of a large single copy, a small single copy, and two inverted repeat regions. It contains 133 genes, of which 88 are protein-coding genes, 37 are tRNA genes, and eight are rRNA genes. Twenty-four simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and 81 repeat sequences were identified. Comparative analyses with other Justicieae species revealed that the non-coding regions of J. procumbens cpDNA showed greater variation than did the coding regions. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis based on 14 cpDNA sequences from Justicieae species showed that J. procumbens and J. flava were most closely related. This study provides valuable genetic information to support further research on the genetic diversity and evolutionary development of the tribe Justicieae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Philodendron hederaceum (Jacq.) Schott 1829, a species of the Araceae family, is a foliage plant of ornamental value. The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Philodendron hederaceum was obtained by the de novo assembly of NovaSeq 6000 (Illumina Co., San Diego, CA) paired-end short reads and Oxford Nanopore long reads. The complete chloroplast genome of P. hederaceum was 168,609 bp in length, with a large single-copy (LSC) region of 94,393 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 25,774 bp, and a pair of identical inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 24,221 bp. The genome contained a total of 129 genes, including 85 protein-coding genes, 36 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The phylogenetic analysis of P. hederaceum with 19 related species and two outgroup species revealed the closest taxonomical relationship with Philodendron lanceolatum in the Araceae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulsatilla chinensis f. alba D. K. Zang 1993 is a forma of Pulsatilla chinensis (Bge.) Regel, the root of P. chinensis is traditional Chinese medicine called Pulsatillae radix. The biggest difference between P. chinensis f. alba and P. chinensis is that P. chinensis f. alba sepals is white. The complete chloroplast genome of P. chinensis f. alba was sequenced using the Illumina NovaSeq platform for the first time. The lengths of the genome, large single-copy (LSC), small single-copy (SSC), two inverted repeats (IRs), and GC content were 163,654 bp, 82,355 bp, 19,069 bp, 31,115 bp, and 37.2%, respectively. It had 134 genes, including 90 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. The maximum-likelihood tree indicated that P. chinensis f. alba had a closer relationship with P. chinensis. This study would provide a theoretical basis for the further study of Pulsatilla plants genetics phylogenetic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractAsterothamnus centraliasiaticus Novopokr., a species of perennial deciduous semi-shrub within the family Asteraceae, has excellent medical, economic, ecological and genetic value. In this study, the chloroplast genome of A. centraliasiaticus was first assembled using Illumina HiSeq2500 sequences. The results indicate that the complete cp genome of A. centraliasiaticus is 152,205 bp in length, and comprises a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 25,031 bp each, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 83,956 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,187 bp. The GC content of A. centraliasiaticus is 37.3%. A total of 130 genes were successfully annotated containing 85 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNA genes, and 8 ribosomal RNA genes. The maximum likelihood (ML) phylogenetic analysis based on the complete chloroplast genome data highly supported that A. centraliasiaticus was close to Aster lavandulifolius. These results will provide significant genetic information for the germplasm protection and reasonable development.

AbstractCyperus malaccensis Lam is a perennial herbaceous plant that is distributed over a large area along the southern coast of China. Some plants of the Cyperaceae family are highly similar morphologically, which makes them difficult to classify and identify. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of C. malaccensis was sequenced and assembled. The chloroplast genome is 186,098 bp long with a 33.18% content of GC. The structure of chloroplast genome includes a quadripartite structure that is composed of a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 37,434 bp, a small single copy (SSC) region of 10,296 bp, and a large single copy (LSC) region of 100,934 bp. The genome contains 141 genes, including 94 protein-coding genes, 39 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. A phylogenetic analysis showed that C. malaccensis is the most closely related to the congeneric species C. rotundus. These results enrich the genetic resources of the Cyperaceae and provide a molecular basis for further study on the phylogeny of this family.

AbstractPhlomoides kirghisorum Adylov, Kamelin & Makhmedov 1987 is one of the poorly studied narrow endemics of Fergana Valley, one of Central Asia’s most densely human-populated regions. In this study, we sequenced, assembled, and characterized the complete plastome of P. kirghisorum by using high-throughput Illumina reads. The complete chloroplast genome consisted of 151,324 bp, including a large single-copy (LSC) region (82,775 bp), a small single-copy (SSC) region (17,357 bp), and two inverted repeat regions (25,596 bp each). In the chloroplast genome of P. kirghisorum, 133 genes were detected, comprising 88 protein-encoding genes, eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that the genetic relationship between P. kirghisorum and P. alpina was very close. This study provides basic information to explore the molecular evolution of the Phlomoides genus and the Lamiaceae family.

AbstractPinus tabuliformis var. henryi (Mast.) C.T.Kuan 1983 is an endemic and rare subtropical pine, mainly distributed in central China. In this study, we sequenced the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of P. tabuliformis var. henryi and reported it for the first time. The cp genome was 119,634 base pairs (bp) in total length, including two inverted repeats (IRs, 495 bp), separated by a large single-copy region (LSC, 65,600 bp) and a small single-copy region (SSC, 53,044 bp). There are 114 different genes in the cp genome of P. tabuliformis var. henryi, including 74 protein-coding genes, 36 transfer RNA genes, and four ribosomal RNA genes. The overall GC content of the cp genome was 38.5%. Our phylogenetic analysis of P. tabuliformis var. henryi demonstrated that it was closely related to P. tabuliformis and could be used to identify and analyze its genetic diversity, which was expected to provide new data for taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of Pinus.

AbstractZiziphus mairei Dode 1908 (Rhamnaceae) is a rare and endangered perennial plant in Yunnan, China. In this study, we sequenced, assembled, and annotated the complete chloroplast genome of Z. mairei. The complete chloroplast genome was a closed circular molecule of 161,546 bp with a typical tetrad structure, containing a large single-copy (LSC) region of 89,252 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 19,364 bp, and a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 26,465 bp. A total of 128 genes have been annotated, including 83 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. The GC content is 36.7%. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Z. mairei is closely related to Z. hajarensis, Z. jujuba, and Z. jujuba var. spinosa. Our results provide useful genetic resources for further studies on the conservation and evolution of Z. mairei.

AbstractRosa ‘Limoncello’ finds applications in gardening and landscaping. In this study, we assembled and annotated the complete chloroplast genome of this variety for the first time. The length of its chloroplast genome was 156,493 bp, containing two short inverted repeat regions of 26,052 bp, each separated by a large single-copy region of 85,649 bp and a small single-copy region of 18,740 bp. The chloroplast DNA of R. ‘Limoncello’ consisted of 135 genes, including 90 protein-coding genes, eight ribosomal RNA genes, and 37 transfer RNA genes. On comparing the complete chloroplast sequence of R. ‘Limoncello’ with that of other Rosa species, R. ‘Limoncello’ was found to be closely related to Rosa cymosa. Thus, information on the chloroplast genome sequence of this rose variety can facilitate phylogenetic studies of the genus Rosa.

AbstractElaeagnus ‘viridis’, an artificial hybrid of E. macrophylla (♂) Thunb. (1784) × E. pungens (♀) Thunb. (1784), is known for its economic and ecological value. In this study, we sequenced and assembled the whole chloroplast (cp) genome of E. ‘viridis’. The results showed that its cp genome was 152,284 bp long, showing a typical quadripartite structure and containing a large single-copy region (LSC, 82,299 bp), a small single-copy region (SSC, 18,239 bp), and a pair of inverted repeats (IRs, 51,746 bp). The cp genome contains 132 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis based on 66 common PCGs revealed that E. ‘viridis’ is most closely related to its maternal parent E. pungens. The chloroplast genomic information reported in this study will shed some useful light for further genetic studies in the genus Elaeagnus.

AbstractPentaphragma spicatum Merr. is an endemic wild edible plant of China belonging to the Pentaphragmataceae family. It is widely consumed by Shangsi County resident in Guangxi Fangchenggang. Initially, Pentaphragma was classified as a genus within the Campanulaceae family, but, later it was treated as part of the Pentaphragmataceae family. However, the chloroplast genome of Pentaphragmataceae has not yet been reported. In this study, we sequenced the first complete chloroplast (cp) genome of P. spicatum from Guangxi, China. The whole genome was 154,229 bp in length, consisting of a pair of inverted repeats (IR each 25,572 bp), a large single-copy region (LSC 84,884 bp), and a small single-copy region (SSC 18,201 bp). The complete genome contained 129 genes, including 87 protein-coding genes, 34 tRNA, and 8 rRNA genes. The overall GC content of the whole genome was 37.71%. Based on a maximum-likelihood phylogenetic analysis, it has been determined that P. spicatum is not phylogenetically related to Campanulaceae and supports the decision to classify it as a separate family, Pentaphragmataceae. The complete chloroplast genome of P. spicatum will help enhance and integrate the existing genome data of Asterales. This will provide insights into the phylogenetic relationship within Campanulaceae.

We determined the complete chloroplast genome sequence of Epilobium parviflorum Schreb. The genome is 161,284 bp in length [including a large single copy (LSC): 89,063 bp; a small single copy (SSC): 17,323 bp; and two inverted repeat (IR) regions: 27,499 bp] with 38.1% GC content and contains 84 coding genes (CDS), 37 transfer RNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Among them, infA was annotated as a pseudogene. The maximum-likelihood analysis based on CDS sequences of chloroplast genomes was conducted for investigating the phylogenetic relationship among Epilobium and related species. The results showed a close relationship between E. parviflorum and E. hirsutum L. Our study added new genetic information of E. parviflorum and helped to understand the relationship with related species and evolutionary history in Onagraceae.

AbstractMeliosma oldhamii Miq. is a deciduous arbor and a member of Sabiaceae. It is one of the rare and protected plants with outstanding ornamental and economic value in Jiangsu, China. In addition to the resource values indicated above, there are numerous other elements that require additional research, including the chloroplast (cp) genomic information. In this work, the complete cp genome sequence of M. oldhamii was assembled and characterized for the first time. The complete cp genome of M. oldhamii was 159,950 base pair (bp) in length, including a large single-copy (LSC) region of 87,147 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,015 bp, and the inverted repeats (IRs) region of 27,394 bp. It contains 131 genes, including 37 tRNA genes, eight rRNA genes, 85 protein-coding genes, and one pseudogene. The overall GC content of M. oldhamii cp genome was 37.95%. The placement of M. oldhamii in the phylogenetic tree constructed using the complete cp genome is largely congruent with previous studies. The clustering of Meliosma is non-monophyletic, aligns more closely with existing morphological taxonomic studies, thereby enhancing the scholarly and scientific nature of this research.

AbstractRubus chingii Hu 1925 is an important medicinal vine shrub in the Rosaceae family, widely distributed in China and Japan. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of R. chingii was sequenced and identified. The chloroplast genome was 155,563 bp in size with a total GC content of 37.06%. Two 25,749-bp inverted repeat (IRA and IRB) regions divided the genome as four sections, with the remainder forming a large single-copy (LSC, 85,322 bp) and a small single-copy (SSC, 18,743 bp) regions. This genome contained a total of 131 genes, of which 86 were protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis showed that R. chingii, along with several other R. longisepalus, R. tsangii, R. hirsutus, R. taiwanicola, R. rubroangustifolius, and R. glandulosopunctatus, formed the monophylic group. Interestingly, the chloroplast genome structure we reported was different from the previously reported structure and provided richer phylogenetic analysis information in the Rubus genus compared to previous studies. The genome information reported in this paper will provide some useful information for further investigation on the evolution of the family Rosaceae.

AbstractThe species of Saussurea sagittifolia Y. S. Chen & S. R. Yi belongs to the family Asteraceae (Cardueae). The complete chloroplast genome of S. sagittifolia was assembled and annotated for the first time in this study. The complete chloroplast genome of S. sagittifolia was 152,535 bp, including a large single-copy (LSC) region of 83,511 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,632 bp, and a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,196 bp. The overall GC content of the chloroplast genome was 37.7%. The chloroplast genome encoded 131 genes, including 87 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis based on complete chloroplast sequences revealed that it related closely to Saussurea medusa.

Abstract Background Justicia L. is the largest genus in Acanthaceae Juss. and widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Previous phylogenetic studies have proposed a general phylogenetic framework for Justicia based on several molecular markers. However, their studies were mainly focused on resolution of phylogenetic issues of Justicia in Africa, Australia and South America due to limited sampling from Asia. Additionally, although Justicia plants are of high medical and ornamental values, little research on its genetics was reported. Therefore, to improve the understanding of its genomic structure and relationships among Asian Justicia plants, we sequenced complete chloroplast (cp.) genomes of 12 Asian plants and combined with the previously published cp. genome of Justicia leptostachya Hemsl. for further comparative genomics and phylogenetic analyses. Results All the cp. genomes exhibit a typical quadripartite structure without genomic rearrangement and gene loss. Their sizes range from 148,374 to 151,739 bp, including a large single copy (LSC, 81,434–83,676 bp), a small single copy (SSC, 16,833–17,507 bp) and two inverted repeats (IR, 24,947–25,549 bp). GC contents range from 38.1 to 38.4%. All the plastomes contain 114 genes, including 80 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNAs and 4 rRNAs. IR variation and repetitive sequences analyses both indicated that Justicia grossa C. B. Clarke is different from other Justicia species because its lengths of ndhF and ycf1 in IRs are shorter than others and it is richest in SSRs and dispersed repeats. The ycf1 gene was identified as the candidate DNA barcode for the genus Justicia. Our phylogenetic results showed that Justicia is a polyphyletic group, which is consistent with previous studies. Among them, J. grossa belongs to subtribe Tetramerinae of tribe Justicieae while the other Justicia members belong to subtribe Justiciinae. Therefore, based on morphological and molecular evidence, J. grossa should be undoubtedly recognized as a new genus. Interestingly, the evolutionary history of Justicia was discovered to be congruent with the morphology evolution. Conclusion Our study not only elucidates basic features of Justicia whole plastomes, but also sheds light on interspecific relationships of Asian Justicia plants for the first time.

AbstractCallicarpa dichotoma (Lour.) K.Koch is a shrub species with distribution from East Asia to Southeast Asia. We assembled and annotated for the first time the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of C. dichotoma. The cp genome of C. dichotoma is 154,110 bp long with the GC content of 38.09% and consists of four subregions: a large single-copy (LSC) region of 84,915 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 17,783 bp and a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,706 bp each. The cp genome of C. dichotoma encodes a total of 114 unique genes, comprising 80 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. Phylogenetic trees based on the coding sequences strongly support the position of C. dichotoma within the genus Callicarpa, confirming the previously reported monophyly of the genus.

AbstractTorenia violacea (Azaola) Pennell 1943 as a traditional Chinese medicine plant, has been used to treat multiple diseases. In this study, we sequenced, assembled, and characterized the complete plastome of T. violacea. The plastome (OQ167784) exhibited a typical quadripartite structure, with a total length of 154,007 bp, comprising a pair of inverted repeats (IRs; 24,809 bp) separated by a large single-copy (LSC) region (85,559 bp) and a small single-copy (SSC) region (18,830 bp). Through genome annotation, we identified 133 genes, including 87 protein-coding genes, eight rRNA genes, and 38 tRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a close relationship between T. violacea and T. fournieri. The research results provide basic genetic resources for the development of species identification and investigation of phylogenetic relationships in the Torenia genus.

Cinnamomum burmanni (Nees & T.Nees) Blume (Lauraceae) belongs to the Magnoliids group and is mainly distributed in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The complete chloroplast (cp) genome of C. burmanni sampled from Indonesia was assembled and annotated for the first time in this study. The length of the cp genome is 152,765 bp with a GC content of 39%, and it consists of four subregions: a large single-copy (LSC) region of 93,636 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,893 bp and two inverted repeats (IR) regions (IRA 20,121 bp; IRB 20,115 bp) . The cp genome of C. burmanni encodes a total of 173 unique genes, which are 96 protein-coding genes, 19 rRNA genes, and 68 tRNA genes that can be utilized for advanced genetic and genomic studies of the species.

Asterothamnus centraliasiaticus Novopokr., a species of perennial deciduous semi-shrub within the family Asteraceae, has excellent medical, economic, ecological and genetic value. In this study, the chloroplast genome of A. centraliasiaticus was first assembled using Illumina HiSeq2500 sequences. The results indicate that the complete cp genome of A. centraliasiaticus is 152,205 bp in length, and comprises a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 25,031 bp each, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 83,956 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,187 bp. The GC content of A. centraliasiaticus is 37.3%. A total of 130 genes were successfully annotated containing 85 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNA genes, and 8 ribosomal RNA genes. The maximum likelihood (ML) phylogenetic analysis based on the complete chloroplast genome data highly supported that A. centraliasiaticus was close to Aster lavandulifolius. These results will provide significant genetic information for the germplasm protection and reasonable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyperus malaccensis Lam is a perennial herbaceous plant that is distributed over a large area along the southern coast of China. Some plants of the Cyperaceae family are highly similar morphologically, which makes them difficult to classify and identify. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of C. malaccensis was sequenced and assembled. The chloroplast genome is 186,098 bp long with a 33.18% content of GC. The structure of chloroplast genome includes a quadripartite structure that is composed of a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 37,434 bp, a small single copy (SSC) region of 10,296 bp, and a large single copy (LSC) region of 100,934 bp. The genome contains 141 genes, including 94 protein-coding genes, 39 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. A phylogenetic analysis showed that C. malaccensis is the most closely related to the congeneric species C. rotundus. These results enrich the genetic resources of the Cyperaceae and provide a molecular basis for further study on the phylogeny of this family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pinus tabuliformis var. henryi (Mast.) C.T.Kuan 1983 is an endemic and rare subtropical pine, mainly distributed in central China. In this study, we sequenced the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of P. tabuliformis var. henryi and reported it for the first time. The cp genome was 119,634 base pairs (bp) in total length, including two inverted repeats (IRs, 495 bp), separated by a large single-copy region (LSC, 65,600 bp) and a small single-copy region (SSC, 53,044 bp). There are 114 different genes in the cp genome of P. tabuliformis var. henryi, including 74 protein-coding genes, 36 transfer RNA genes, and four ribosomal RNA genes. The overall GC content of the cp genome was 38.5%. Our phylogenetic analysis of P. tabuliformis var. henryi demonstrated that it was closely related to P. tabuliformis and could be used to identify and analyze its genetic diversity, which was expected to provide new data for taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of Pinus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]