Separate and combined Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analyses of the papilionoid legume genus Poecilanthe sensu lato (Leguminosae) and other Genistoid genera were performed using molecular (nuclear ribosomal and chloroplast matK) and morphological data. The data are in excellent agreement that Poecilanthe is paraphyletic with respect to other genera of the tribe Brongniartieae. Each of the three independent lineages of Poecilanthe sensu lato combines a morphological, geographical, and ecological distinction. They will be ranked at the genus level and Poecilanthe sensu stricto is recircumscribed to encompass the extra-Amazonian species that occur in highly seasonal dry forests.