Polianthes /ˌpɒliˈænθz/[1] is a formerly recognized genus of plants in family Asparagaceae, subfamily Agavoideae.[2] molecular phylogenetic studies showed that Polianthes is embedded within the larger genus Agave, which has been expanded to include it.[2][3] (See Agave § Taxonomy.) One of its former members is the tuberose, Agave amica, formerly Polianthes tuberosa, a plant that is commonly used in perfume making.

Agave amica, formerly Polianthes tuberosa

Species

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All the species formerly placed in Polianthes are endemic to Mexico, although Agave amica has become naturalized in other places. Some species now included in Agave are listed below with synonyms from the World Checklist of Selected Plant Families.

References

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  1. ^ Sunset Western Garden Book, 1995:606–607
  2. ^ a b Stevens, P.F., Angiosperm Phylogeny Website: Asparagales: Agavoideae, retrieved 17 May 2011[permanent dead link]
  3. ^ "Polianthes", World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, retrieved 19 March 2014
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