The complete plastid genome sequence of Ilex suaveolens (H. Lév.) Loes, the most abundant medicinal holly in Mount Huangshan

Researchers have sequenced the complete plastid genome of Ilex suaveolens, a medicinal holly endemic to Mount Huangshan, revealing its genetic structure and evolutionary relationships. The 157,857 base pair genome contains 89 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes, with a GC content of 37.6%. Phylogenetic analysis showed that I. suaveolens clusters closely with I. szechwanenesis and I. viridis, suggesting strong biogeographical connections. This study provides critical insights into the genetic diversity of Ilex species in Mount Huangshan, supporting conservation efforts for this ecologically and medicinally significant plant.

Yuan, L., Wu, H., Zhang, C., Wang, Y., Huang, Q., Fan, S., & Su, T. (2021). The complete plastid genome sequence of Ilex suaveolens (H. Lév.) Loes, the most abundant medicinal holly in Mount Huangshan. Mitochondrial DNA Part B, 6(2), 468–469. https://doi.org/10.1080/23802359.2021.1872428