Hi All, Some of the plants discussed here are covered by the new report from the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group (APG2). For instance, APG2 suggests that Hyacinthaceae and Agavaceae (e.g., Manfreda) be included in the Asparagaceae. Similarly, APG2 proposes including Amaryllidaceae and Agapanthaceae in the Alliaceae. The rationale is provided and there is plenty of reason to argue to a different conclusion that provided by the APG2. The Linneaean system combines scientific fact with human decision (where to draw a boundary), and therein lies the room for argument. There is no absolute rule for "how far apart two plants must be in order to be in different families." I've uploaded the article for a few days for those who want to read it. Be sure and read the section on monocots, pages 5 and 6. LINK: APG2 report http://members.aol.com/ConroeJoe/APG2.pdf Cordially, Conroe Joe