Molecular phylogenetic studies of palms (Arecaceae) have not yet provided a fully resolved phylogeny of the family. Ludeña et al. test the value of AGAMOUS 1 and PHYTOCHROME B genes as new nuclear markers to improve phylogenetic resolution in the family, using the subtribe Bactridinae as a case study. The results provide new insights into the intergeneric relationships within Bactridinae and the intrageneric structure of Astrocaryum, and the existence of a monophyletic group sister to Astrocayum, corresponding to the debated genus Hexopetion, is supported. The new markers thus provide additional phylogenetic information within the palm family, and should prove useful in combination with other genes to improve the resolution of palm phylogenies.