Romuleae

Romuleae is a tribe within the iris family, Iridaceae, a group of monocot flowering plants. The circumscription of Romuleae has varied with modern classifications and molecular studies, but the tribe is typically anchored by the genus Romulea and includes several related genera that share a geophytic habit and iris-like flowers.

Geography and habitat: Most species are native to southern Africa, particularly the Cape region, while others occur in parts of Europe and the broader Mediterranean basin. Members of Romuleae are commonly found in open grasslands, rocky slopes, and other seasonally dry habitats. They are adapted to drought and seasonal fluctuations, and many form underground storage organs to survive dry periods.

Morphology: Romuleae species are perennial geophytes that grow from corms or tunicated bulbs. Leaves are usually linear and basal. Flowers are typically conspicuous iris-like blooms with three outer and three inner tepals, often arranged on a slender inflorescence. Colors range widely, including purples, pinks, yellows, and whites. The reproductive parts and fruiting structures align with characteristic Iridaceae features, producing seeds within a capsule.

Taxonomy and notes: The tribal boundaries within Iridaceae have shifted as phylogenetic data accumulated. Romuleae’s membership and delimitation have changed accordingly, with molecular studies guiding reclassification and the reassignment of related genera over time. The tribe remains a key reference for describing the evolution and diversity of small, cormous iridaceous plants in its geographic region.

See also: Romulea, Iridaceae.