The Uncertain Systematic Position of Symplocos (Symplocaceae): Evidence from a Floral Ontogenetic Study

Recent molecular analyses show considerable variation in family interrelationships of Ericales sensu lato. Here, we will review the proposed phylogenetic relationships of the monogeneric Symplocaceae on the basis of floral morphological evidence. Scanning electron microscopy observations of the floral development of Symplocos paniculata Miq. show that some characteristics that were used to determine the position of the family seem to have been misinterpreted by different authors: placentation and number and position of the ovules in the species studied differ from general descriptions of the genus; the reported presence of bracts and bracteoles in all members of the family needs to be confirmed. From a floral ontogenetic point of view, it seems reasonable to consider Symplocaceae to be a member of Ericales sensu lato, where most of the apparently related taxa are classified.