Recurrent breakdowns of mutualisms with ants in the neotropical ant-plant genus Cecropia (Urticaceae).

•We present a new phylogeny for the ant-associated genus Cecropia (Urticaceae).•Cecropia is sister to Musanga, implying dispersal from the Neotropics to Africa.•We infer a single origin of symbiosis with ants and eight subsequent losses.•Mutualism breakdown follows shifts to high altitudes and Caribbean islands.