Aquilegia vulgaris
Aquilegia vulgaris · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Aquilegia vulgaris is a notable botanical species characterized by a complex chemical profile that includes compounds such as apigenin, apigenin 7,4'-dimethyl ether, aquiledine, and isoaquiledine. This plant can be utilized in various forms, most commonly as a whole herb or processed into seed oil. From a pharmacological perspective, it exhibits activities as a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor and an alpha-reductase inhibitor. However, users should be aware that the plant possesses allergenic and anemiagenic properties. The seeds serve as a primary component for many of its medicinal and chemical applications.
- Synonyms
- Aquilegia Vulgaris Inversa · Aquilegia Vulgaris Proles Collina · 116 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Aquilegia vulgaris is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of names across different cultures and languages. In various regions, it is affectionately referred to by common names such as Adi akvilegiya and Adi hasekiküpesi. Moving through different linguistic landscapes, one might also encounter it called Aguileña común or simply Akeleje. Its nomenclature further extends to include the term Almindelig akeleje, showcasing its widespread recognition. These various identities highlight the global presence and botanical charm of this unique species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Aquilegia vulgaris is a complex botanical species that encompasses several different taxonomic designations. Within its wide-ranging classification, it is recognized by various synonyms such as Aquilegia albopleno and Aquilegia arbascensis. The plant's identity also extends to specialized forms like Aquilegia atrata subsp. vulgaris and Aquilegia bertolonii var. parviflora. Furthermore, the name Aquilegia caryophylloides is frequently cited as a synonymous label for this versatile flower. Understanding these diverse botanical relationships is essential for accurate identification in the field.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Aquilegia vulgaris is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the intricate beauty of the natural world. Belonging to the class Equisetopsida, this plant is defined by its specific evolutionary lineage. It is categorized under the order Ranunculales and falls within the diverse family Ranunculaceae. Within this taxonomic framework, it is classified under the genus Aquilegia. Understanding these relationships helps botanists appreciate the unique biological identity of this species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Aquilegia vulgaris exhibits a broad and diverse geographical distribution that spans multiple continents. In the African region, this species is notably found across Macaronesia, including the Azores, the Canary Islands, and Madeira. Moving into the temperate zones of Asia, its presence is well-documented throughout the Caucasus and the North Caucasus. The plant's reach further extends into Central Asia, with specific populations established in areas such as Uzbekistan. This wide-ranging habitat allows the species to adapt to various environmental conditions across these distinct territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Aquilegia vulgaris is a self-supporting herb that adds a delicate touch to any garden landscape. This charming plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1 meter, making it an ideal choice for mid-border planting. While it can grow quite tall, it often maintains a more modest stature with a minimum height of 0.3 meters. For many specimens, a more consistent height of approximately 0.625 meters is frequently observed. These varying dimensions allow the species to adapt beautifully to different environmental conditions.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Aquilegia vulgaris serves as a significant subject of interest due to its diverse chemical composition. Within its biological makeup, the plant contains the novel flavonoid alkaloids aquiledine and isoaquiledine. In addition to these specific alkaloids, the species also possesses important flavonoids such as apigenin. The presence of luteolin further highlights the complex phytochemical profile found within this plant. Understanding these specific relationships provides valuable insight into the chemical properties of the Aquilegia genus.
Conditions
Preparations
Aquilegia vulgaris is prepared as seed oil, which serves as a source for identifying specific fatty acids like C18:3 through spectral analysis. This plant species is also utilized in different contexts where its components are studied via mass spectrometry. While the provided text notes that the whole herb is used for isolating alkaloids in the related species Aquilegia ecalcarata, the research on Aquilegia vulgaris specifically highlights the extraction of oil from its seeds. These distinct preparation methods allow researchers to characterize the unique chemical profiles of the plant. Consequently, both the seed oil and the whole herb represent important forms for botanical and phytochemical investigation.
Parts used
Aquilegia vulgaris serves as a significant subject in phytochemical research due to its unique chemical composition. By utilizing mass spectrometry, scientists have been able to analyze the specific fatty acids present within its seed oil. Specifically, the identification of C18:3 fatty acids was made possible through the detailed examination of these seeds. This method allows researchers to distinguish the lipid profiles of various medicinal plants with high precision. Ultimately, such studies highlight the importance of seed-derived oils in understanding plant chemotaxonomy.