Abstract: The subsection Neriiflora Sleumer is one of the largest subsections of Rhododendron subgenus Hymenanthes, containing 27 species, 8 subspecies and 24 varieties. All the species are divided into four groups according to morphological characters, relationships among the species and their geographical distribution. The evolution and relationships of the group are discussed. The Group D is of highly specialized morphological characters. The subsection has its modern distribution center in the Hengduan Mountains in south-westernChina.

Key words: Rhododendron, subsection Neriiflora, evolution, morphological character, distribution