Chloroplast DNA variation in the genus camellia with reference to the origin of 'Tamanoura'

PCR-RFLP analysis of the atp H-atpl and trnL-trnF regions was performed to detect intra- and inter-specific chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) variation in Japanese and Chinese Camellia species. Two haplotypes (Haplotypes I and III) were identified in C. japonica, and two (Haplotypes I and IV) were recognised in C. japonica ssp. rusticana. In Chinese Camellia, various cpDNA haplotypes were found (Haplotypes I, II, IV, V, VI, VII and VIII), but Haplotype III was not detected in this study. We conclude that Haplotype III species occur in Japan, but not in China, and that 'Tamanoura', which has Haplotype III cpDNA, was derived from C. japonica with Haplotype III cpDNA.