The Aizoaceae-a new approach

Abstract

The history of the Aizoaceae Rudolphi in its various circumscriptions is reviewed, and the monophyly of the Aizoaceae sensu stricto after exclusion of Molluginaceae is demonstrated. A subdivision of the family and the relevant synapomorphic character expressions are discussed. Five subfamilies are recognized, namely the Aizooideae, the Aptenioideae Schwantes ex Bittrich & H. E. K. Hartrnann, the Ruschioideae Schwantes ex Bittrich & H. E. K. Hartmann, the Sesuvioideae Lindley, and the Tetragonioideae Lindley. The position of the Aizoaceae sensu stricto within the Centrospermae is discussed.