Alchemilla xanthochlora

Alchemilla xanthochlora · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Alchemilla xanthochlora is a notable botanical species characterized by its unique chemical profile. The plant contains significant concentrations of bioactive compounds, including tannin and quercetin 3-arabinopyranoside. Recent research explores its interactions with various smoke-derived substances such as food-grade liquid smoke and smoke water. Furthermore, the application of karrikinolide (KAR1) provides insights into how this species responds to fire-related chemical signals. Understanding these components helps clarify the complex relationship between the plant's chemistry and its environment.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Alchemilla Pratensis · Alchemilla Pratensis Var. Amphitricha · 17 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Rosaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Alchemilla xanthochlora is a versatile plant known by various regional names across different languages. In French-speaking areas, it is commonly referred to as Alchémille Commune, while it goes by Geelgroene vrouwenmantel in Dutch. German speakers recognize the species as Gelbgrüner Frauenmantel, a name that reflects its distinct characteristics. In English-speaking contexts, it is often identified as the Intermediate Lady's-mantle. Finally, the plant is known in Denmark as Gulgrøn løvefod, showcasing the diverse linguistic heritage associated with this species.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Alchemilla xanthochlora is a complex species characterized by several botanical synonyms that reflect its taxonomic history. It is closely linked to Alchemilla palmata subsp. pratensis and the broader classification of Alchemilla pratensis. Within this group, specific variations such as Alchemilla pratensis var. amphitricha and Alchemilla pratensis var. sericans are also recognized. Additionally, the name Alchemilla sylvestris has been used to describe members of this botanical lineage. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and classification.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Alchemilla xanthochlora is a distinctive botanical specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further finds its place within the order Rosales, which dictates many of its structural characteristics. This species is a proud member of the Rosaceae family, sharing traits with many well-known flowering plants. Ultimately, it is identified by its specific genus, Alchemilla, which defines its unique biological lineage.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Rosales
Family Rosaceae
Genus Alchemilla

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Alchemilla xanthochlora is a versatile plant species with a broad geographical reach spanning multiple continents. In the Australasian region, it can be found throughout Australia, specifically within the states of New South Wales and Victoria. Its presence also extends significantly into Europe, where it thrives across various landscapes. Within Eastern Europe, the plant is well-established in the Baltic States, Ukraine, and Northwest European Russia. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse environmental conditions across the globe.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Alchemilla xanthochlora is a distinct herb characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This plant typically maintains a modest stature within its natural habitat. Depending on environmental conditions, its height can vary significantly between 0.15 m and 0.8 m. While the minimum height is often recorded at 0.15 m, many specimens reach a more consistent threshold of 0.415 m. This range of development allows the species to adapt effectively to its surroundings.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Alchemilla xanthochlora is a notable member of the Rosaceae family that possesses a rich profile of bioactive secondary metabolites. Scientific analysis has confirmed that this species contains significant amounts of tannin, which contributes to its high elastase inhibiting activity. Furthermore, the plant serves as a source of the major flavonoid compound quercetin 3-arabinopyranoside. Specifically, researchers have successfully isolated quercetin 3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranoside from its aerial parts through spectroscopic characterization. These chemical constituents highlight the complex pharmacological potential inherent in the plant's composition.

Conditions

Alchemilla xanthochlora is identified in research as a species that can be treated to address issues of seed dormancy. Although certain smoke-derived treatments like KAR1 did not show a detectable response in this specific plant, dormancy alleviation remains a primary focus for its cultivation. Additionally, the plant is noted for its significant chemical properties within the Rosaceae family. Specifically, Alchemilla xanthochlora exhibits high tannin content which contributes to its elastase inhibiting activity. This dual profile highlights its importance in both germination studies and its biochemical potential.

Preparations

Alchemilla xanthochlora was evaluated to determine if it could be treated with various smoke-derived substances to break seed dormancy. Researchers tested whether the plant responds to treatments prepared as food-grade liquid smoke, smoke water, and the karrikinolide KAR1. These specific preparations were assessed to see if they could improve germination in this medicinal and aromatic species. However, the study found that no detectable response to KAR1 was observed for Alchemilla xanthochlora. Similarly, the results indicated that these smoke-based treatments did not effectively alleviate dormancy for this particular plant.

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