A phylogenetic analysis of plastid DNA sequences from the trnL-F region corroborates the hypothesis that Haemodoraceae, a small monocotyledonous family centered in southwestern Australia, are monophyletic and probably sister to Philydraceae. It also supports the long standing recognition of the two subfamilies. In Conostylidoideae Tribonanthes falls in an isolated position, thus supporting its segregation as a recently recognised monotypic tribe. Tribal status for Phlebocarya is not supported, as this taxon is placed in Conostylideae as sister to Conostylis-Blancoa. The DNA tree supports continued recognition of Macropidia and Blancoa as distinct genera, contrary to a recent morphological cladistic analysis. Tribes Wachendorfieae and Haemodoreae are not strongly supported in subfamily Haemodoroideae. It is unlikely that Haemodoraceae are of Gondwanan origin, and the phylogenetic pattern indicates a largely relictual distribution with a recent radiation in Western Australia. Results are discussed in relation to conservation priorities.

Key words: Australia, biogeography, conservation, Haemodoraceae, Philydraceae, trnL-F