Archidendron lucidum
Archidendron lucidum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Archidendron lucidum is a fascinating tropical tree species known for its impressive stature and lush foliage. While much of its biological significance lies in its canopy and fruit, the plant's root system serves as a vital foundation for its stability and nutrient absorption. These roots play a crucial role in anchoring the tree firmly within its forest habitat. Understanding the underground anatomy is essential for grasping how this species thrives in competitive ecosystems. By studying its root structure, researchers gain deeper insights into the overall health and longevity of the plant.
- Synonyms
- Pithecellobium Lucidum · Feuilleea Championii · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Archidendron lucidum is a plant known by a diverse array of regional and linguistic identifiers. In Chinese contexts, it is commonly referred to by the name apes-earring. The species also holds several significant names within Japanese culture, including あかはだのき and あかばのき. Furthermore, it is recognized through the terms たまざきごうかん and the katakana transcription アカハダノキ. These various common names highlight the plant's widespread recognition across different geographic areas.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Archidendron lucidum is a botanical subject that is frequently identified by several different scientific names. In various taxonomic records, this species is recognized by the synonym Abarema lucida. It is also commonly referred to in literature as Albizia championii or Feuilleea championii. Furthermore, the plant has been classified under the name Pithecellobium lucidum in certain contexts. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for accurate identification and botanical research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Archidendron lucidum is a distinctive species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Fabales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. This plant is a member of the diverse family Fabaceae, showcasing its connection to other legumes. Ultimately, its specific identity is secured within the genus Archidendron.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Archidendron |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Archidendron lucidum is a distinctive species primarily distributed throughout various temperate and subtropical regions of Asia. Its presence is well-documented across multiple provinces in China, including the South-Central and Southeast territories. The plant also finds a suitable habitat on the tropical island of Hainan. Beyond mainland China, its range extends to the eastern reaches of the continent, specifically within Taiwan and the Nansei-shoto islands. This broad distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in diverse ecological niches across East Asia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Archidendron lucidum is characterized by its distinct growth form as a sturdy tree. This botanical species is naturally self-supporting, allowing it to maintain its structure and stature within its environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Archidendron lucidum, also identified in botanical studies as Pithecellobium lucidum, serves as a rich source of bioactive triterpenoid saponins. Researchers have successfully isolated several unique oleanane-type triterpene saponins, including the newly named pithelucosides A-C, from the plant's roots. Through extensive NMR experiments and mass spectrometry, the complex chemical structures of these compounds were precisely established. These specific saponins have demonstrated significant cytotoxic potential when tested against various human tumoral cell lines. Notably, the study also confirmed that these compounds lack hemolytic activity, suggesting a favorable profile for further medicinal investigation.
Conditions
Archidendron lucidum, identified in the research as Pithecellobium lucidum, contains specific chemical constituents capable of affecting cancer cells. Researchers isolated six unique compounds from the roots of this plant using advanced chromatographic techniques. Among these isolated substances, compound 2, a 3-[ (2-acetamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopyranosyl) oxy] -16alpha-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid, demonstrated significant biological potential. This specific compound exhibited selective cytotoxic activity against the human A2780 cell line. The effectiveness of this treatment was quantified with an IC50 value of 1.72 micromol x L(-1).
Preparations
Parts used
Archidendron lucidum, also known as Pithecellobium lucidum, contains several chemically significant compounds located within its root system. Research has successfully isolated various substances from these roots, including julibroside A2 and several new oleanane-type triterpene saponins. These specific constituents, such as pithelucosides A-C, have demonstrated notable cytotoxic properties when tested against human tumoral cell lines. Furthermore, the identification of these compounds was achieved through advanced techniques like NMR experiments and mass spectrometry. The study of these root-derived elements highlights the plant's potential importance in pharmacological development.