Cryptocarya obovata
Cryptocarya obovata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cryptocarya obovata is a distinctive botanical species known for its unique physiological characteristics. This plant is particularly valued for its useful components, which include its fruits and its trunk bark. The fruits serve as a key element in various traditional preparations and studies. Additionally, the bark of the trunk is frequently harvested for its specific medicinal or practical properties. Understanding these parts is essential for anyone exploring the diverse applications of this species.
- Synonyms
- Litsea Ferruginea Var. Lanceolata · Tetranthera Ferruginea Var. Lanceolata
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lauraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Cryptocarya obovata is a versatile species known by a diverse array of regional and linguistic labels. In Australia, it is frequently referred to by the common names Australian laurel or pepperberry-tree. Many enthusiasts and locals also identify the plant simply as pepperberry or white walnut. Beyond English terminology, the species is recognized in other languages as paorešnica obrátenovajcovitá. These various names highlight the plant's widespread recognition across different botanical circles.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cryptocarya obovata is a botanical subject frequently encountered under various taxonomic designations in historical literature. Scientific records indicate that this species is closely linked to the synonym Litsea ferruginea var. lanceolata. Furthermore, the plant has been identified in other studies as Tetranthera ferruginea var. lanceolata. These overlapping classifications highlight the complex evolutionary relationships and shifting nomenclature within the genus. Understanding these synonymy connections is essential for researchers seeking to accurately identify the plant across different botanical databases.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cryptocarya obovata is a fascinating specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Laurales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Cryptocarya, it displays unique morphological traits characteristic of its group. Finally, it is nested within the Lauraceae family, completing its formal botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Cryptocarya |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cryptocarya obovata is a versatile species characterized by a broad and diverse geographical distribution. This plant can be found across the tropical regions of Asia, specifically spanning through Indo-China and Vietnam. Its presence also extends significantly into the Australasia region, where it is well-established in Australia. Within the Australian continent, the species thrives in the coastal and inland areas of New South Wales. Additionally, it maintains a strong ecological foothold throughout the state of Queensland.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cryptocarya obovata is a self-supporting tree that establishes a robust presence within its ecosystem. This species can reach a significant maximum height of 40 meters as it matures. Its impressive growth form allows it to stand tall and dominate the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Cryptocarya obovata serves as a rich source of diverse bioactive secondary metabolites. Scientific investigations into the plant's fruits and trunk bark have led to the isolation of several unique compounds. Among these identified substances are alpha-pyrones and various chalcones that exhibit interesting properties. Notably, the research confirms that Cryptocarya obovata contains B 5, which is classified as one of the oboflavanones. These findings provide essential insights into the complex chemical profile and potential medicinal value of the species.
Conditions
Preparations
Cryptocarya obovata serves as a source of bioactive compounds through its specific plant parts. The fruits of the species are utilized to isolate various chemical constituents like alpha-pyrones and flavanones. Additionally, the trunk bark of the plant is prepared to extract cytotoxic flavonoids and chalcones. These distinct parts, including the fruits and the bark, yield important substances such as obolactone and obochalcolactone. Through these preparations, the plant provides essential materials for studying significant in vitro cytotoxic activities.
Parts used
Cryptocarya obovata is a plant species that contains various bioactive compounds within its biological structures. Scientific research has specifically identified that the fruit of this plant serves as a source for several unique chemical constituents. Among these isolated substances are alpha-pyrones, such as obolactone, and specific chalcones. These compounds were extracted alongside flavanones from both the fruit and the trunk bark. Ultimately, the study highlights how the fruit contributes to the plant's significant cytotoxic potential against certain cell lines.