Cyrtanthus elatus
Cyrtanthus elatus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cyrtanthus elatus is a distinctive plant species known for its unique botanical characteristics and chemical profile. Research into this species has identified specific bioactive compounds, including 1,2-O-Diacetylzephyranthine and Zephyranthine. These chemical constituents are often studied through the use of an alcoholic extract to isolate their properties. Understanding the molecular makeup of this plant provides valuable insights into its potential pharmacological applications. As interest in natural products grows, Cyrtanthus elatus remains a subject of significant scientific curiosity.
- Synonyms
- Vallota Speciosa · Vallota Grandiflora · 11 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Cyrtanthus elatus is a striking plant known by several different names depending on the region and local preference. It is frequently referred to as the George Firelily or the George Lily, reflecting its vibrant appearance. Some enthusiasts also use the name Georgelelie to describe this unique species. Depending on its specific habitat, it may be called the Knysna Firelily or the Scarborough Lily. These various common names all point to the same beautiful and distinctive flowering plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cyrtanthus elatus is a botanical species known to have several historical taxonomic synonyms. Throughout various scientific classifications, it has been identified under names such as Amaryllis elata and Amaryllis mexicana. Its complex history also includes designations as Amaryllis purpurea var. major and Amaryllis purpurea var. minor. Additionally, researchers have previously referred to this plant as Amaryllis speciosa in different contexts. Understanding these various names is essential for anyone studying the shifting nomenclature of this particular plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cyrtanthus elatus is a fascinating botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It specifically falls into the order Asparagales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. Further narrowing its identity, the species is a member of the Amaryllidaceae family. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Cyrtanthus, defining its distinct morphological characteristics.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Cyrtanthus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cyrtanthus elatus is a striking botanical species native to the African continent. This plant is primarily concentrated within the diverse landscapes of Southern Africa. Specifically, it can be found flourishing throughout the various Cape Provinces. Its unique presence in these regions highlights the rich biodiversity found in these habitats. Understanding its geographic distribution is essential for anyone studying the local flora of the area.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cyrtanthus elatus is a self-supporting plant that maintains a compact presence in its natural habitat. It typically reaches a modest height, ranging from a minimum of 0.2 m to a maximum of 0.44 m. This stature makes it an ideal choice for spaces where a low-growing botanical feature is desired.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Cyrtanthus elatus serves as a significant source of specialized chemical compounds found within its fresh bulbs. Through the process of alcoholic extraction, researchers have successfully isolated the alkaloid known as zephyranthine from this plant. In addition to zephyranthine, the extraction process also yielded 1,2-O-diacetylzephyranthine along with three other known alkaloids. To ensure precise identification, scientists utilized two-dimensional NMR techniques to complete the structural assignment of these specific compounds. This chemical profile highlights the complex alkaloid composition inherent to the species.
Conditions
Preparations
Cyrtanthus elatus is prepared as an alcoholic extract using its fresh bulbs to isolate specific chemical compounds. This extraction process successfully yielded the alkaloids zephyranthine and 1,2-O-diacetylzephyranthine. Along with these two primary substances, the process also identified three other known alkaloids. Researchers utilized two-dimensional NMR techniques to achieve a complete assignment of the 1H and 13C NMR spectra for the resulting compounds. This specific preparation method serves as the foundation for the detailed structural analysis of the plant's alkaloid profile.