Consider the Lilies

Publication of a book to interpret recent changes in the classification of lilioid monocots

Colchicum speciosum (Colchicaceae)

Research on monocot systematics has made considerable advances in recent years, based on analyses of molecular data combined with new assessments of morphological characters. As a result of this co-ordinated approach, much of it at Kew, existing reference books are now out of date for some monocot groups; in particular the classification of lilioid monocots has been substantially updated. Our goal is to provide an interpretation of recent changes in the classification of lilioid monocots belonging to the orders Asparagales, Liliales, Dioscoreales and Pandanales.

The lilioid monocots include many horticulturally well-known plants such as colchicum, crocus, daffodil, fritillary, gladiolus, iris, lily, and economically important food plants such as onion and yam. Most lilioid monocots are from temperate regions; hence their long-established importance in horticulture and agriculture; though some tropical families are also included. This volume is aimed for use by both scientists and interested amateurs, in libraries, horticulture and teaching.