Peucedanum
Peucedanum is a genus of flowering plant in the carrot family, Apiaceae.[3] Peucedanum boasts a global presence with diverse spread of morphological features.[4][5] Peucedanum species are characterized by dorsally compressed mericarps, slightly prominent dorsal ribs, narrowly winged lateral ribs, and a broad commissure.[5] However, the vast diversity of morphology, fruit forms, and phytochemical production makes classifying species in the Peucedanum challenging.[6][5] Historically relevant in traditional medicine, Peucedanum's taxonomic complexity arises from its extensive diversity.[7][5] Peucedanum's taxonomy is being reshaped by novel genomic insights, prompting ongoing revisions with promising implications for ethnopharmacological research and the broader understanding of plant biodiversity.[5] These efforts hold potential for advancements in therapeutic discoveries and contribute to the ecological significance of this globally diverse genus. TaxonomyRecent genomic analyses have indicated Peucedanum's non-monophyletic nature, prompting revisions in its taxonomic classification.[5] Once considered among the largest genera of the Apiaceae, taxonomic revisions, informed by genomic and phytochemical analyses, have reduced the estimated number of Peucedanum species to approximately 74.[5][4] Molecular phylogenetic studies have identified fifteen mutation hotspots in the Peucedanum genome, providing potential markers for accurate species classification.[5] Ongoing taxonomic revisions, guided by genetic insights, aim to enhance accuracy and facilitate the discovery of new Peucedanumspecies. SpeciesAs of January 2024[update], Plants of the World Online accepted the following species:[8]
Former species
Species formerly classified as Peucedanum include:
DistributionSpanning from Madeira to the Hawaiian islands, Peucedanum's expansive geographical range has necessitated reclassification of African Peucedanoid species based on nuanced taxonomy incorporating genetic, morphological, habit, and seasonality considerations.[4][30] Medicinal potentialPeucedanum's medicinal significance, especially in treating antimicrobial-resistant infections, underscores the need for accurate taxonomy. Species like Peucedanum graveolens, Peucedanum japonicum, and Peucedanum ostruthium exhibit antimicrobial properties, suggesting potential as alternative treatments as a compliment to antibiotics in combating antibiotic-resistant pathogens.[7][31][32] References
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