Molecular phylogeny of Astragalus section Alopecuroidei (Fabaceae) and its allies based on nrDNA ITS and three cpDNAs, matK, trnT-trnY and trnH-psbA sequences

► Sections Laxiflori and Christianophysa should be merged with sect. Alopecuroidei. ► A. caraganae (sect. Astragalus) should be transferred to sect. Alopecuroidei. ► The majority of the previously proposed subdivisions of sect. Alopecuroidei are not monophyletic. ► The phylogenetic study presented here does not support the monophyly of sect. Astragalus.