Clerodendrum calamitosum
Clerodendrum calamitosum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Clerodendrum calamitosum is a distinctive botanical species known for its unique structural characteristics. This plant is primarily defined by its robust stems that provide essential support for its upward growth. The foliage is comprised of specialized leaves that contribute to the plant's overall aesthetic and functional profile. By observing the relationship between the stem and the leaf, one can better understand its biological development. This species serves as a fascinating subject for those interested in studying intricate plant anatomy.
- Synonyms
- Clerodendrum Fastigiatum · Volkameria Alternifolia · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Clerodendrum calamitosum is a distinctive plant known by a variety of regional and linguistic names across the globe. In Vietnam, it is affectionately referred to by the common name Ngọc nữ Cúc Phương. Russian speakers identify the species as Клеродендрум ротанговый. Within Chinese-speaking communities, the plant is recognized as 化石樹 or 化石樹 (爪哇大青). These diverse names highlight the widespread botanical interest and cultural presence of this unique species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Clerodendrum calamitosum is a botanical species that is recognized under several different scientific names. In various taxonomic records, it is frequently identified by the synonym Clerodendrum fastigiatum. Researchers also encounter this plant listed as Volkameria alternifolia in certain historical classifications. Furthermore, the name Volkameria fastigiata serves as another valid synonym for this particular taxon. Understanding these overlapping nomenclatures is essential for accurate plant identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Clerodendrum calamitosum belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse life found within the botanical world. As a member of the order Lamiales, it shares specific structural characteristics with many other significant flowering plants. This species is further classified within the family Lamiaceae, a group often recognized for its distinct aromatic qualities. It falls under the specific genus Clerodendrum, which helps botanists identify its unique evolutionary lineage. Finally, its taxonomic placement within the class Equisetopsida situates it firmly among the vascular plants.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Clerodendrum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Clerodendrum calamitosum exhibits a widespread geographical presence that spans across multiple continents and diverse ecological zones. In Africa, this species can be found throughout the Western Indian Ocean and the Seychelles. Its reach extends deep into tropical Asia, where it is established across the Indian Subcontinent and throughout India. The plant is also well-distributed within the Indo-China region, specifically inhabiting Cambodia and the Andaman Islands. Finally, its range includes the Nicobar Islands, completing a vast distribution pattern across these maritime and mainland territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Clerodendrum calamitosum is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. This resilient species maintains its structural integrity as it develops into a sturdy, upright bush.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Clerodendrum calamitosum contains compounds that demonstrate strong cytotoxicity against breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cells. The plant's derivatives also show significant activity against human lung carcinoma (A549) lines. Furthermore, these substances effectively treat epidermoid carcinoma of the nasopharynx (KB). This therapeutic potential extends to more difficult cases, including the etoposide-resistant (KB-7d) subclones. Finally, the plant exhibits efficacy against camptothecin-resistant (KB-CPT) cell lines.
Preparations
Parts used
Clerodendrum calamitosum serves as a significant source of bioactive pheophorbide-related compounds. Research indicates that these chemical constituents can be specifically isolated from both the leaves and the stems of the plant. By analyzing these different parts, scientists successfully identified three distinct compounds, including those previously unknown in nature. The extraction from the leaf and stem structures proved essential for the detailed spectroscopic analysis of their chemical identities. Ultimately, these findings highlight the importance of utilizing various plant parts to discover potent cytotoxic agents.