Research Progress of Habitat Distribution and Genetic Relationship of Medicinal Plants of Polygonatum

Polygonatum is a traditional medicinal herb with dual functions as both food and medicine. Globally, there are approximately 79 species of Polygonatum distributed primarily in the northern temperate and northern subtropical regions. China is recognized as the modern distribution center for Polygonatum plants, hosting 39 species, 20 of which are endemic. Due to the high morphological similarity among Polygonatum species and the overlapping of geographical distribution, the taxonomic identification has long posed challenges in phylogenetic botany research. This paper systematically summarizes the habitat and distribution characteristics of major medicinal plants of Polygonatum in China, presents an in-depth exploration of advancements on the genetic relationships from multiple perspectives, including morphology, cytology, chemical composition differences, and molecular genetics etc., aiming to provide a theoretical foundation for the taxonomic identification, resource conservation, sustainable utilization, and industrial development of Polygonatum.