Peeling back the layers: First phylogenomic insights into the Ledebouriinae (Scilloideae, Asparagaceae)

The Ledebouriinae (Scilloideae, Asparagaceae) are a widespread group of
bulbous geophytes found predominantly throughout seasonal climates in
sub-Saharan Africa, with a handful of taxa in Madagascar, the Middle East,
India, and Sri Lanka. Phylogenetic relationships within the groups have
been historically difficult to elucidate. Here, we provide the first
phylogenomic perspective into the Ledebouriinae. Using the Angiosperms353
targeted enrichment probe set, we consistently recovered four major clades
(i.e., two Ledebouria clades, Drimiopsis, and Resnova). The two Ledebouria
clades closely align with geography, either consisting almost entirely of
sub-Saharan African taxa (Ledebouria Clade A), or East African and
non-African taxa (Ledebouria Clade B). Our results suggest that the
Ledebouriinae likely underwent a rapid radiation leading to rampant
incomplete lineage sorting. We additionally find evidence for potential
historical hybridization between Drimiopsis and a subclade within
Ledebouria Clade A.