Asphodeline lutea

Asphodeline lutea · Accepted scientific name

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

Asphodeline lutea, commonly known as yellow asphodel, is a perennial herb characterized by its striking spikes of bright yellow flowers. This plant belongs to the Asphodelaceae family and is frequently found in Mediterranean habitats. In various traditional practices, the plant has been utilized for its specific biological properties. Scientific interest often focuses on the development of aqueous extracts derived from its various parts. These water-based preparations serve as a primary method for studying the plant's potential therapeutic applications.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Asphodelus Luteus
Common names
Not available
Family
Asphodelaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Asphodeline lutea is a versatile plant recognized by a variety of unique names across different languages and regions. In English-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to by the descriptive common name Jacob's-rod. Moving into French contexts, the species is known as Asphodèline jaune, while it takes on the name Asfodelo giallo in Italian. German speakers identify the plant as either Gelber Affodill or Gele affodil. These diverse linguistic labels highlight the widespread botanical presence and cultural variety associated with this single species.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Asphodeline lutea is a botanical species that is frequently identified by its alternative scientific name, Asphodelus luteus. This synonymy often appears in various taxonomic databases and historical botanical texts. While the names may differ depending on the classification system used, they both refer to the same distinct flowering plant. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for researchers seeking to maintain consistency in their studies. Consequently, recognizing both terms ensures that the plant is correctly documented across different scientific literature.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Asphodeline lutea is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, the plant is categorized under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the order Asparagales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. Further classification places the species within the family Asphodelaceae. Ultimately, it is identified by its specific genus, Asphodeline.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Asparagales
Family Asphodelaceae
Genus Asphodeline

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Asphodeline lutea is a resilient species that boasts a diverse geographical range spanning across multiple continents. In Africa, its presence is notably established within the northern regions of Algeria and Tunisia. Moving into the Asia-Temperate zone, the plant thrives throughout the Caucasus, specifically within the North Caucasus and Transcaucasus areas. Its distribution also extends to Western Asia, where it can be found growing on the island of Cyprus. This broad habitat selection highlights the plant's ability to adapt to varied Mediterranean and temperate environments.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Asphodeline lutea is a self-supporting herb that maintains a sturdy, upright posture in its natural habitat. This botanical species typically reaches a modest height, generally ranging between 0.6 m and 0.7 m. Such consistent dimensions contribute to its distinctive profile within its ecosystem. Consequently, its compact growth form makes it a reliable and identifiable feature of the landscape.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Asphodeline lutea exhibits significant antimicrobial properties that effectively target the dermatophyte Trichophyton violaceum. In scientific investigations of Palestinian folkloric medicinal plants, the aqueous extract of this species demonstrated potent inhibitory effects against this specific fungus. It was categorized among the most active plant extracts capable of suppressing the growth of T. violaceum. The research indicates that the extract contributes to a group of highly effective botanicals that can achieve high levels of fungal inhibition. Consequently, Asphodeline lutea serves as a successful natural agent for treating T. violaceum infections.

Preparations

Asphodeline lutea is prepared as aqueous extracts to evaluate its potential medicinal properties. These specific preparations were utilized in a study investigating the antifungal activity of various plants used in Palestinian folkloric medicine. Within this research, the aqueous extracts were tested against several dermatophyte isolates, including Microsporum canis, Trichophycon mentagrophytes, and Trichophycon violaceum. The study found that Asphodeline lutea was among the most active species in inhibiting the growth of Trichophycon violaceum. This demonstrates the efficacy of using aqueous extracts of the plant to combat specific fungal infections.

Parts used