Crataegus maximowiczii
Crataegus maximowiczii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Crataegus maximowiczii, commonly known as Maximowicz's hawthorn, is a distinctive deciduous shrub or small tree valued for its ornamental beauty. This species is particularly notable for producing vibrant red fruits that serve as a focal point in many landscapes. These fruits are rich in anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidant pigments responsible for their deep, striking coloration. Beyond their visual appeal, these chemical compounds contribute to the biological significance of the plant's reproductive structures. Understanding the relationship between the fruit and its chemical composition offers insight into the unique characteristics of this hardy species.
- Synonyms
- Crataegus Sanguinea Var. Villosa · Mespilus Sanguinea Var. Villosa · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Crataegus maximowiczii is a versatile species known by a diverse array of regional names across the globe. In English-speaking contexts, it is frequently referred to as the amur hawthorn. Its cultural presence is further highlighted by the Finnish name amurinorapihlaja and the Czech designation hloh Maximovičův. Moving into Asian territories, the plant is commonly identified as mao shan zha. Finally, in Russian-speaking regions, it is recognized by the name боярышник Максимовича.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Crataegus maximowiczii is a complex species characterized by a diverse range of botanical synonyms that reflect its varied taxonomic history. Scientific literature identifies several distinct variations, including Crataegus altaica var. villosa and Crataegus maximowiczii var. ninganensis. The plant's classification also encompasses Crataegus beipiaogensis, highlighting the intricate nature of its genetic lineage. Further taxonomic connections link the species to Crataegus sanguinea var. villosa, showcasing its close botanical ties. Interestingly, some historical records even classify it under the name Mespilus sanguinea var. villosa, illustrating the evolving understanding of this plant's identity.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Crataegus maximowiczii is a specialized organism belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Rosales, which connects it to a diverse range of flowering plants. This specific plant is a member of the genus Crataegus, a group known for its distinct characteristics. Finally, it is nested within the family Rosaceae, highlighting its botanical relationship to many familiar garden species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Crataegus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Crataegus maximowiczii is a resilient species with a widespread distribution across the Asia-Temperate region. Its native range extends through various parts of China, including the specific territories of Inner Mongolia and Manchuria. The plant is also well-established in Eastern Asia, flourishing within the landscapes of both Japan and Korea. Additionally, its presence can be found further north in the Russian Far East, specifically within the Amur region. This broad geographic footprint highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse temperate environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Crataegus maximowiczii is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a sturdy tree. It reaches a maximum height of approximately 7 meters as it matures. This structural growth makes it a reliable addition to various landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Crataegus maximowiczii is an economically significant plant recognized for its various medicinal and health-promoting properties. The fruits of this species are particularly notable for their extraordinary black skin, which is derived from a rich concentration of specific chemical compounds. Research indicates that flavonoids serve as the primary functional components found within the fruit. Furthermore, the distinct dark pigmentation is largely driven by the presence of anthocyanins, specifically cyanidin-based varieties. Understanding these internal relationships helps elucidate the complex molecular mechanisms that govern the plant's unique coloration.
Conditions
Preparations
Parts used
Crataegus maximowiczii is an economically significant plant known for its diverse medicinal and health-promoting properties. A key focus of recent botanical research involves the unique characteristics of its fruit, specifically the mechanisms behind its striking pigmentation. The fruits of this species can exhibit an extraordinary black skin, a color driven by the high accumulation of anthocyanins and other functional flavonoids. By utilizing integrative metabolome and transcriptome analyses, scientists have begun to map the complex biosynthetic pathways responsible for these distinct fruit colors. Understanding these genetic and metabolic networks provides essential insights for the comprehensive and effective utilization of the plant.