This largely southern Appalachian genus is generally considered monotypic, but two chromosomne races exist. All plants in Ky. are probably diploids (2n = 12, not 6 as reported in FNA 8); tetraploids occur in the Blue Ridge and further east (Nesom 1983). The latter have distinctly larger overall plant size, larger stomatal guard cell size, distinctive flavonoids, and they probably do not hybridize to a significant degree. However, taxonomic recongition is not generally supported (W). A curious character of Galax is the distinctive musky odor that emanates from leaves of living plants, especially on warm days (Andrews 1915). A secondary mystery is if, or how, this plant led to the commercial perfume component, Galaxolide, which became widely synthesized after 1965. There does not seem to be any regular literature connecting the plant and the chemical. A more established use is "galax pulling" of leaves for use by florists: "It is estimated that up to 2 billion leaves are harvested annually with a value of over $20 million to local collectors along the Blue Ridge escarpment" (Bir 2005, W). The confamilial species, Shortia galactifolia Torr. & Gray, is endemic to the southern Blue Ridge, but small patches have been established from transplants, including behind the lodge at Natural Bridge State Park in Ky. (POWE).