Phylogenetic classification of Ericaceae: Molecular and morphological evidence

A new classification of Ericaceae is presented based on phylogenetic analyses of nuclear Y I and chloroplast DNA sequence data, morphology, anatomy, and embryology. Eight subfamilies and 20 tribes are recognized. In this classification Epacridaceae are included as Styphelioideae and Empetraceae as tribe Empetreae within the Ericoideae. The herbaceous taxa previously recognized as Pyrolaceae and Monotropaceae by some authors are also included within Ericaceae, in the subfamily Monotropoideae. A key, morphological descriptions, and representative images are provided for all named groups. Two new combinations in Kalmia (K. buxifolia and K. procumbens) are made, and three new taxa are described: Oligarrheneae, Richeeae, and Cosmelieae (all within Styphelioideae).