Current status and future prospects of research on endemic vascular plant diversity in Temperate Asia

Temperate Asia is a global hotspot for biodiversity research, harboring more than 63000 species of vascular plants, with an endemism rate reaching up to 67%. This paper first reviews the distributional patterns and research progress concerning the diversity of endemic vascular plants in Temperate Asia. The region can be divided into four major phytogeographical units, each characterized by distinct ecological and evolutionary features. The research foundation in the Circumboreal Region is relatively weak, with the endemic species accounting for 26%. The Eastern Asiatic region, strongly influenced by the monsoon climate, is rich in relict species and exhibits an endemism rate of 57%. The Irano-Turanian region serves as a center for the evolution of xerophytes, though research there remains limited, with an endemism rate of 60%. Finally, the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau region has undergone extensive uplift, promoted the rapid radiation of alpine plants and resulted in an endemism rate of 58%. We further discuss the current opportunities and challenges in studying endemic plants across Temperate Asia and future research priorities. This article provides a valuable framework for understanding the evolution and conservation of temperate flora in the Northern Hemisphere. It also contributes to biodiversity conservation, guides future research directions, and supports global sustainable development and ecological security.