An updated phylogenetic and biogeographic analysis based on genome skimming data reveals convergent evolution of shrubby habit in Clematis in the Pliocene and Pleistocene

•We obtain a well-resolved phylogeny of Clematis using genome skimming data.•We resolve six major clades within Clematis, all dated to the end of Miocene, with a species radiation during the Pleistocene.•The shrubby habit evolved independently in four lineages of Clematis in Asian dryland areas.•Monsoon variation in the Pliocene and glacial period fluctuation in the Pleistocene may have driven the origin and diversification of shrubby Clematis.