Abstract:

Seed plants, as a fundamental component of ecosystems and a critical genetic resource reservoir, play key ecological functions and contain rich genetic diversity. They possess significant ecological, genetic, economic, and cultural value, making them indispensable for human survival and development. However, Hunan Province currently lacks a systematically organized inventory of wild seed plant resources. This study aims to integrate multi-source data to develop a comprehensive, classified dataset that includes a checklist and the geographical distribution of wild seed plants in the region. The dataset is intended to provide robust data support for plant diversity research, conservation initiatives, and sustainable resource utilization in Hunan Province. The dataset was constructed through an extensive review of academic literature, digitized herbarium records, and authoritative plant diversity databases. Species identification and taxonomic arrangement followed the latest systems and research advances. Up to August 31, 2025, the finalized dataset documents 194 families, 1,272 genera, 5,476 taxa (4,910 species, 92 subspecies, 468 varieties, and 6 forms) of wild seed plants in Hunan Province. Each entry in the dataset includes detailed taxonomic information (family, genus, species, and infraspecific taxa), leaf phenology (for woody plants), life form, growth form, county-level distribution in Hunan Province, elevational range, endemism, endangered status (according to IUCN or national criteria), and conservation level. Specimen vouchers or photographic records are provided as supporting evidence where available. The dataset covers all 122 county-level administrative regions across the 14 prefecture-level cities and autonomous prefectures of Hunan Province. This dataset constitutes the most complete checklist and geographical distribution dataset of wild seed plants in Hunan Province at present. It provides essential baseline data for conserving plant genetic diversity, establishing germplasm resource banks, and supporting genetic breeding research. It also offers a scientific basis for practical applications such as nature reserve planning, ecological corridor design, and the identification of priority conservation areas. The dataset is expected to make a substantial contribution to regional biodiversity conservation strategies and biosecurity management.

Key words: wild seed plants, geographical distribution, county-level administrative regions, biodiversity, Hunan Province