A dataset on Gesneriaceae and its geographical distribution in China

China stands as a global epicenters for the diversity of Gesneriaceae, exemplified by its pronounced species differentiation within the southwestern territories. The Gesneriaceae taxon is characterized by its biological diversity, reproductive and nutritional organ phenotypic polymorphism, and a pan-tropical distribution pattern. These characteristics make this taxon a primary focus in research related to biogeography, evolutionary ecology, conservation biology, and more. Despite the importance of Gesneriaceae, investigations concerning its biodiversity in China have been limited to cataloging species, or some other generic analyses. This has left a gap in understanding the diversity distribution patterns of Gesneriaceae throughout China. To fill this gap, this study compiled literary and specimen data to catalogue Gesneriaceae and establish a geographic distribution database for China's known Gesneriaceae. The findings reveal that Gesneriaceae primarily inhabit the tri-junction of Yunnan, Guizhou, and Guangxi, as well as the Hengduan Mountains, southeastern Tibet, and across southern provinces. As of June 2024, the Gesneriaceae in China comprised 46 genera 880 species (including 58 varieties). Among these, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region held the most (305) species, followed by Yunnan Province (299 species), and then Guizhou Province (130 species). At the county scale, Malipo County (70 species) and Pingbian Miao Autonomous County (63 species) of Yunnan province had the most Gesneriaceae diversity.