Research progress on nationally protected plants in the three most north-eastern provinces of China.

Background: The three most north-eastern provinces of China (Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning) are rich in natural resources and have favourable geographical conditions, making them home to a large number of wild plant species. This paper summarises the distribution characteristics, endangerment degree and research status of nationally protected plants in these provinces based on online databases, literature review and field surveys. New information: The results show that the north-eastern provinces have 31 families, 38 genera and 51 species of nationally protected plants. The endangered status includes both the endangered assessments made by China and those made globally. China has assessed 38 plant species as endangered, while 19 plant species are assessed as endangered globally. Currently, most of the protected plants have been studied, with in-situ and ex-situ conservation being the primary protective measures. In addition, this study also identified seven species of plants that are basically not covered by research and lack sufficient studies in the current literature and urgently need further in-depth investigation and long-term monitoring in order to improve the relevant conservation measures. This study provides a scientific basis for the conservation vacancies of plants under national key protection in the three north-eastern provinces, as well as a reference for formulating effective conservation policies and promoting further research.