Alangium platanifolium
Alangium platanifolium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Alangium platanifolium is a distinctive deciduous shrub known for its unique botanical characteristics. This species is primarily recognized for its striking foliage, which features broad leaves that resemble those of a plane tree. The arrangement and shape of these leaves provide a lush, textured appearance to the plant's overall structure. Collectors and gardeners often value this plant for the ornamental quality its greenery brings to a landscape. Understanding its leaf morphology is essential for the accurate identification of this species in the wild.
- Synonyms
- Marlea Platanifolia · Marlea Sinica · 16 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Cornaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Alangium platanifolium is a distinctive plant known by several different names across various linguistic and regional contexts. In English-speaking botanical circles, it is frequently referred to as the Planeleaf Alangium. The species also carries the descriptive name alangium platanolisté and the specialized designation Platanalapis alangis. In certain cultural settings, it is recognized by the common name Dan-pung-bak-jwi-na-mu. Furthermore, its identity is preserved in Cyrillic script as Алангиум платанолистный, reflecting its diverse global presence.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Alangium platanifolium is a botanical species characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. It is frequently identified in scientific literature under the synonym Alangium macrophyllum. The plant also encompasses several specific forms, including Alangium platanifolium f. cordatum and Alangium platanifolium f. velutinum. Additionally, researchers may refer to it as Alangium platanifolium f. macrophyllum to denote certain variations. Finally, the taxonomic identity is further extended to include Alangium platanifolium var. macrophyllum within its diverse nomenclature.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Alangium platanifolium is a distinctive species that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this botanical kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Cornales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. This species is a member of the family Cornaceae, showcasing its structural connections to related plants. Ultimately, its taxonomic identity is defined by its placement within the genus Alangium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Alangium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Alangium platanifolium is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the Asia-Temperate regions. Its presence is notably widespread across China, spanning from the North-Central and South-Central territories to the Southeast. The species also extends its reach into the Manchuria region, highlighting its adaptability to different climates. Beyond mainland China, it can be found flourishing in the Eastern Asia region, specifically within Japan. This broad geographical range underscores the significant ecological footprint of the species across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Alangium platanifolium is a self-supporting tree that maintains a sturdy and independent growth form. Reaching a maximum height of 3 meters, this species provides a compact yet structured presence in its environment. Its modest stature makes it a distinctive element within its natural landscape.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Parts used
Alangium platanifolium serves as a significant source of unique chemical constituents found within its foliage. Research conducted in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, has focused specifically on the leaves of this plant to isolate bioactive compounds. During these studies, scientists successfully identified three novel megastigmane diglycosides named platanionosides A, B, and C. These new substances were discovered alongside other known compounds such as benzyl alcohol derivatives and specific hexenol glycosides. By analyzing these leaf extracts through spectroscopic evidence, researchers have successfully elucidated the complex structures of these specialized metabolites.