An angiosperm phylogeny based on sequence information from the matK gene is presented. Our dataset currently comprises representatives of most angiosperm lineages (approx. 350 taxa) and was analyzed using maximum parsimony with gymnosperms as outgroup. The strict consensus tree is strikingly similar to results of a recent combined analysis (18S rDNA + rbcL + atpB) both in topology and high statistical support of many nodes. Amborella branches first, followed by Nymphaeales and an Illicium-Austrobaileya-clade. The non-monocot eumagnoliids (Chloranthales, Magnoliales, Laurales, Winterales, Piperales) appear next as a monophyletic group. This basal grade is followed by the monocots forming a sister group to Ceratophyllum. Within eudicots Ranunculales branch first with the core eudicots (Saxifragales, Gunnerales, Vitales, Santalales, Berberidopsidales, rosids, Caryophyllales, asterids) being one of the best supported major clades (99% bootstrap). A clade of asterids and Caryophyllales appears as sister to Berberidopsidales. Asterids consist of a well- supported clade composed of Ericales, Cornales, and euasterids. Within rosids most of the currently recognized orders gain good support. Moreover, matK sequences provide good resolution within many of the orders of angiosperms.

Key words: angisperms, large data sets, matK, molecular systematics, phylogeny