Anthericum is a genus of rhizomatous perennial plants in the family Asparagaceae (subfamily Agavoideae), order Asparagales. The genus was formerly placed in its own family, Anthericaceae, before molecular studies led to its reclassification within the broadly circumscribed Asparagaceae.
Plants in the genus are characterised by rhizomatous or tuberous root systems, long narrow strap-like leaves, and branched flowering stems that bear starry, six-tepalled white flowers. The narrow foliage is the trait commemorated in the generic name, which derives from the Greek ανθερικος (antherikos), meaning "straw."
The genus as currently accepted is relatively small, comprising around eight accepted species. Its natural range spans the tropics and subtropical zones of Africa, with a particular concentration in southern Africa and Madagascar, as well as outlying representatives in Europe. Only two species are in general cultivation in temperate gardens.
The circumscription of Anthericum has contracted significantly over time. Many familiar plants once placed here have been moved to allied genera: numerous African species are now accommodated in Chlorophytum (the spider plants), and St. Bruno's Lily was transferred to Paradisea. This taxonomic reshuffling reflects the broader reorganisation of the old order Liliales following modern phylogenetic analysis.
Etymology
The generic name Anthericum is derived from the Greek word ανθερικος (antherikos), meaning "straw," a reference to the genus's characteristically long, narrow leaves.
Distribution
Species of Anthericum occur mainly in the tropics and southern Africa and Madagascar, with additional representatives in Europe. The centre of diversity lies in sub-Saharan Africa.
Taxonomy Notes
Anthericum was formerly placed in its own family Anthericaceae. Following molecular phylogenetic revision it is now placed in Asparagaceae (subfamily Agavoideae), order Asparagales. The genus has been substantially reduced in scope: many species previously included are now referred to Chlorophytum (spider plants) and Paradisea (St. Bruno's Lily), among other segregate genera. GBIF currently recognises two accepted descendants under this genus key.
