A dataset of diversity and geographical distribution of wild Magnoliaceae in China

<p indent="0mm"> The Magnoliaceae family, an ancient relict group and a key representative of primitive angiosperms, is widely distributed across Earth’s history. It is characterized by a complex taxonomic structure and diverse habitat types. In China, from the southwest to the south, it serves as the “modern distribution center” and “center of diversity conservation”. Due to climate changes and human activities, such as habitat destruction and overexploitation, Magnoliaceae has become one of the most threatened plant families on China’s list of rare and endangered species. Based on literature and extensive data, this study collected and organized geographic distribution data for 13 genera and 157 species of wild Magnoliaceae plants in China, including 11 varieties, 2 subspecies, and 3 forms. Of these, 101 species are endemic to China, and two genera—<italic>Woonyoungia</italic> and <italic>Pachylarnax</italic>—are endemic. Referring to the 2024 edition of the Catalogue of Life China Annual Checklist, the dataset provides critical scientific data for the research, conservation, and sustainable use of Magnoliaceae germplasm resources.