Utilizing a phylogenetic plant classification for systematic arrangements in botanic gardens and herbaria

A unified phylogenetic plant classification, developed by the Vascular Plant Classification Committee (VPCC), has emerged as a globally accepted framework for organizing vascular plant collections in botanic gardens and herbaria. This breakthrough addresses longstanding inconsistencies caused by disparate, outdated systems that hindered international research. The VPCC, formed in 2008 through collaboration between European and Australian botanical organizations, achieved consensus on family circumscriptions and linear sequences among six major institutions in 2009—a landmark scientific and political achievement. Adoption of this classification is now expanding across five continents, with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew leading efforts to reorganize extensive collections. The study underscores the need for dynamic, evolution-reflective sequences and outlines practical strategies for integrating taxonomic updates into existing systems.

Wearn, J. A., Chase, M. W., Mabberley, D. J., & Couch, C. (2013). Utilizing a phylogenetic plant classification for systematic arrangements in botanic gardens and herbaria. Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 172(2), 127–141. https://doi.org/10.1111/boj.12031