The processes that have influenced speciation and evolution in Ranuncu
lus subg. Batrachium are surveyed: polypoidy and hybridization, enviro
nmental adaptation, morphological differentiation, reproduction and th
e breeding system, including the embryology of the group. Preliminary
results of isozyme electrophoretic studies and flavonoid HPLC-studies
are presented. The rank of subgenus as well as differentiation and spe
ciation are discussed. The new combination Ranunculus pekinensis (L. L
IOU) G. DAHLGREN is made.