Integrative chemotaxonomic and micromorphological insights into Peucedanum (Apiaceae)

Members of the genus Peucedanum (Apiaceae) are used as vegetables or medicinal materials but exhibit high morphological and chemical diversity, complicating their taxonomy. Here, we applied ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry and field emission scanning electron microscopy to 24 Korean Peucedanum accessions from eight species, including five endemics. Multivariate analysis separated the genus into three distinct chemotaxonomic groups, supporting recent reclassification trends. P. japonicum, the source of Peucedani Japonici Radix, contained three unique pyranocoumarin derivatives and dense wax deposits, serving as chemotaxonomic biomarkers and distinguishing Sinopeucedanum from Peucedanum. Sillaphyton podagraria (formerly P. insolens) featured two flavonoid glucoside derivatives and hypostomatic, densely striated-surface leaves. Six species contained coumarin glucoside derivatives, supporting segregation of Peucedanum sensu lato to Kitagawia. These findings refine species boundaries and provide new perspectives for future taxonomic studies, while identifying robust chemical markers applicable to food authentication, quality control, and functional food development involving Peucedani Japonici Radix.