<p>
DNA sequences from the nuclear gene <i>waxy</i> were used to assess phylogenetic relationships within <i>Jaltomata</i>, a group of approximately 60 species from Central and South America. Phylogenetic analyses identify two primary groups: a morphologically diverse group from western South America, characterized by orange fruits, and a primarily Mesoamerican clade with black/purple fruit and little morphological diversity. We also identify an early-diverging lineage of <i>Jaltomata</i> species with red fruits, which is sister to the rest of the genus. Ancestral character state reconstruction supports a view of the common ancestor of the genus originating in South America and having rotate corollas similar to many species of <i>Solanum</i>. In addition, we infer independent colonizations of lomas habitats by <i>Jaltomata</i> species and show a correlation between red nectar production and campanulate floral form in multiple lineages, suggesting a common evolutionary syndrome related to pollination.</p>