Phylogenetics of the Chamaesyce clade (Euphorbia, Euphorbiaceae): Reticulate evolution and long‐distance dispersal in a prominent C4 lineage

Abstract

• Premise of the study: The Chamaesyce clade of Euphorbia is the largest lineage of C₄ plants among the eudicots, with 350 species including both narrow endemics and cosmopolitan weeds. We sampled this group worldwide to address questions about subclade relationships, the origin of C₄ photosynthesis, the evolution of weeds, and the role of hybridization and long-distance dispersal in the diversification of the group.