Advances in the study of the systematics of Actinidia Lindley

Actinidia (Actinidiaceae) is of economic importance for its edible fruits. Traditional taxonomy divided the genus into four sections, Leiocarpae Dunn, Maculatae Dunn, Strigosae Li, and Stellatae Li. However, phylogenetic studies based on morphology and molecular markers have posed challenges to the four-section scheme. It appears that the natural classification of the genus points to the existence of two groups, one comprising Leiocarpae, and the other Maculatae, Strigosae, and Stellatae. Single- or low-copy genes would probably be useful in untangling the perplexity and the reticulate evolution of the genus. However, any phylogenetic studies must be firmly based on sound taxonomy and identification. Population sampling throughout the distribution range of the taxa should be carried out in order to study the variation pattern of the morphology and, ultimately, to clarify the confusion existing in some taxa. A combination of morphometrics and molecular data is highly desirable for resolving the uncertainty in Actinidia taxonomy.