Arnebia densiflora

Arnebia densiflora · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Arnebia densiflora, scientifically known as Arnebia densiflora, is a perennial herb belonging to the Boraginaceae family. Native to high-altitude regions, this medicinal plant is celebrated in traditional medicine for its potent anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, primarily attributed to the presence of bioactive shikonin derivatives in its roots.

Family
Boraginaceae
Native range
Europe
Parts used
Root
Common names
Not available
Scientific synonyms
Macrotomia Densiflora · Munbya Densiflora · 7 more

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Arnebia densiflora

Synonyms

Regional and Traditional Names

Spanish:

  • Lithospermum densiflorum
  • Macrotomia cephalotes
  • Macrotomia densiflora

French:

  • Macrotomia cephalotes

Sources: Wikidata, Catalogue of Life

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. Following the subclass Magnoliidae, it is organized under the order Boraginales and the family Boraginaceae. Ultimately, it is categorized under the genus Arnebia.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Boraginales
Family Boraginaceae
Genus Arnebia

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a specific geographical distribution across several distinct regions. In Southeastern Europe, its presence is notably recorded in Greece. The species also extends into the Caucasus region, specifically within the North Caucasus area. Furthermore, it can be found throughout the Transcaucasus territory. Finally, its range reaches into Western Asia, where it is located in Türkiye.

Region Area
Southeastern Europe Greece
Caucasus North Caucasus
Caucasus Transcaucasus
Western Asia Türkiye

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Arnebia densiflora is characterized by its specialization in high-altitude environments, where it predominantly thrives within mountainous regions. This species is specifically adapted to colonizing stony places, often rooting in rocky crevices or sparse, gravelly substrates where drainage is rapid. These rugged terrains provide the specific microclimates necessary for its growth, typically involving well-drained soils found among rock outcrops and mountain slopes.

Habitat :
mountains, stony places

Life history

The life history of Arnebia densiflora is characterized by its status as a perennial plant, allowing it to persist through multiple growing seasons. In terms of its ecological life form, it is classified as a chamaephyte, meaning its buds are located near or just above the soil surface, which helps it withstand various environmental conditions. This chamaephyte growth habit is consistent across its classification, ensuring its survival and reproductive success within its natural habitat over long periods.

Life form :
chamaephyte
Lifecycle :
perennial

Morphology

The morphology of Arnebia densiflora is characterized by its growth form as a non-woody herb. It is a terrestrial species, typically found in well-drained soils rather than aquatic environments. The plant maintains a relatively low profile, with a height that ranges from a minimum of 0.2 m to a maximum of 0.4 m.

Aquatic :
terrestrial
Growth form :
herb
Plant height max:
0.4 m
Plant height min:
0.2 m
Woodiness :
non-woody

Reproduction

The reproduction of Arnebia densiflora is characterized by a specific seasonal flowering cycle that dictates its reproductive window. The flowering process typically commences in June, marking the beginning of its reproductive phase, and continues through the summer months until it reaches its conclusion in August. This concentrated period of blooming ensures that the plant's reproductive efforts are synchronized with favorable environmental conditions during the mid-to-late summer season.

Flowering time :
Jun
Flowering time :
Aug

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Plant Parts

Arnebia densiflora has 1 reported plant parts identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases that are studied for medicinal purposes. The most consistently reported plant part include root.

Plant parts reported in Arnebia densiflora
Plant part Supporting sources Consensus
Root 1 supporting sources ★☆☆☆☆

Root

  1. Phytochemical analysis : PCA

Chemicals

Arnebia densiflora has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Linoleic.

Chemicals reported in Arnebia densiflora
Chemical Supporting sources Consensus
Linoleic 1 supporting sources ★☆☆☆☆

Linoleic

  1. Phytochemical analysis : PCA

Preparations

Arnebia densiflora has 1 reported preparations identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported preparations include hexane extracts of the lipid fraction of the roots.

Preparations reported for Arnebia densiflora
Preparation Supporting sources Consensus
Hexane extracts of the lipid fraction of the roots 1 supporting sources ★☆☆☆☆

Hexane extracts of the lipid fraction of the roots

  1. Phytochemical analysis : PCA