Clerodendrum rotundifolium
Clerodendrum rotundifolium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Clerodendrum rotundifolium is a distinctive plant often recognized for its unique foliage and botanical characteristics. In various traditional medicinal practices, the leaves of this species are highly valued for their therapeutic properties. Specifically, the plant has been utilized in herbal remedies to address health concerns related to malaria. Researchers continue to study the bioactive compounds found within the leaves to understand their potential impact on the disease. Understanding the role of Clerodendrum rotundifolium provides important insights into the intersection of botany and traditional medicine.
- Synonyms
- Clerodendrum Zambesiacum · Clerodendrum Cavum · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Clerodendrum rotundifolium is widely recognized by its distinctive Finnish common name, pyörökohtalonköynnös. This climbing plant is celebrated for its unique growth patterns and striking aesthetic appeal in various garden settings. Understanding its local nomenclature helps enthusiasts connect more deeply with the species within different linguistic contexts. As a member of its genus, it maintains a specific botanical identity that sets it apart from other ornamental vines. Learning these regional names is an essential step for anyone looking to master the art of plant identification.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Clerodendrum rotundifolium is a complex botanical subject that is frequently identified by several different scientific names. Taxonomists have categorized various specimens under this species, including the synonyms Clerodendrum cavum and Clerodendrum guerkei. Furthermore, the plant's classification encompasses several distinct varieties, such as Clerodendrum rotundifolium var. keniense and Clerodendrum rotundifolium var. stuhlmannii. Other recognized synonyms within its botanical lineage include Clerodendrum hildebrandtii var. pubescens. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate identification in the field.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Clerodendrum rotundifolium belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further organized into the order Lamiales, which defines its specific botanical lineage. This plant is a proud member of the genus Clerodendrum. Finally, it finds its place within the aromatic family Lamiaceae.
| 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 rotundifolium is a resilient plant species with a widespread presence across several regions of the African continent. Its natural distribution spans much of East Tropical Africa, including established populations in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Moving further into Northeast Tropical Africa, the species can also be found within the territories of Sudan and South Sudan. Additionally, its range extends southward into the landscapes of Malawi in South Tropical Africa. This diverse geographical spread highlights the plant's ability to thrive in various tropical African environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Clerodendrum rotundifolium typically presents as a robust shrub, offering a dense and structured presence in its natural habitat. However, it also possesses a facultative climbing habit, allowing it to scramble upward when provided with suitable support.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Clerodendrum rotundifolium serves as an effective treatment for malaria due to its potent antiplasmodial activity. The plant demonstrates significant efficacy in treating the chloroquine-sensitive NF54 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. Additionally, its extracts are capable of treating the chloroquine-resistant FCR3 strain. Research indicates that the most active extracts from this species achieved IC50 values of less than 2µg/mL. These findings provide scientific evidence for the medicinal uses of the plant against malaria parasites.
Preparations
Parts used
Clerodendrum rotundifolium serves as a significant subject in recent pharmacological research due to its potential medicinal properties. In this study, the leaves of the plant were harvested and dried to prepare various chemical extracts. Researchers utilized these leaf extracts to investigate their effectiveness against specific strains of the malaria-causing parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. The findings revealed that the extracts from these leaves possess potent antiplasmodial activity, even outperforming other tested samples. Ultimately, this research marks the first time the antiplasmodial capabilities of Clerodendrum rotundifolium have been scientifically documented.