A molecular phylogeny and infrageneric classification for Kunzea (Myrtaceae) inferred from rDNA ITS and ETS sequences

Abstract

Circumscription and infrageneric classification of Kunzea is evaluated after phylogenetic analyses of nrDNA ITS and ETS sequences. Kunzea is monophyletic if the K. ericoides complex and the monotypic Angasomyrtus are included. The genus can be divided into western Australian, eastern Australian, and eastern Australian plus New Zealand clades. Angasomyrtus has greater affinity with the eastern Kunzea species, despite its western Australian endemic status. A new infrageneric classification is proposed, recognising four subgenera, with a further division into sections within two of these. A new combination in Kunzea is made for Angasomyrtus.