Delonix elata
Delonix elata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Delonix elata is a fascinating botanical species known for its unique chemical profile and medicinal potential. Research into its seeds has identified key bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, gallic acid, and heptanoic acid. Additionally, the presence of chemicals such as bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate has been noted during scientific analysis. These seeds are utilized in both internal and external applications to harness their diverse biological properties. Understanding these components provides essential insight into the plant's various therapeutic possibilities.
- Synonyms
- Poinciana Elata · Poinciana Playfairii · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Delonix elata is a fascinating botanical species known by several distinct local and descriptive names. It is frequently referred to by its elegant common name, the Creamy Peacock Flower, which highlights its striking appearance. Depending on the region, you may also encounter it called Arange or Lebi. In different cultural contexts, the plant is recognized as Mtangala or Mutuuti. These diverse names reflect the widespread recognition and unique identity of this beautiful tree.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Delonix elata is a botanical species known by several different names within scientific literature. It is frequently identified by the synonym Caesalpinia elata, which reflects its taxonomic history. Furthermore, the plant is often referred to as Poinciana elata in various botanical records. Some classifications also link the species to the name Poinciana playfairii. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for accurate identification in both academic and horticultural contexts.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Delonix elata is a fascinating species that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its botanical lineage continues through the order Fabales, which connects it to a diverse group of plants. Furthermore, it is a proud member of the family Fabaceae, a group often known for its significant ecological roles. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its specific placement within the genus Delonix.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Delonix |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Delonix elata is a distinctive botanical species widely distributed across various regions of the African continent. Its presence is notably established throughout East Tropical Africa, spanning across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Moving toward the northern reaches of the continent, the plant also thrives within the Northeast Tropical Africa corridor. Specifically, its range extends into the unique landscapes of Djibouti and Eritrea. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's adaptability to the diverse environmental conditions found across these African territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Delonix elata is a self-supporting species characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of only 6 meters. Its compact stature makes it a manageable addition to various landscape settings.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Delonix elata is a potential medicinal plant that possesses a diverse profile of bioactive secondary metabolites. Chemical analysis through HPLC revealed that this species contains key phenolic and flavonoid compounds, including gallic acid, quercetin, hesperidin, and rutin. Additionally, gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy identified the presence of heptanoic acid within the plant's extracts. The study highlights how these specific phytochemicals can be enhanced through the application of biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles in tissue culture. Ultimately, the presence of these varied compounds underscores the significant therapeutic potential of Delonix elata.
Conditions
Delonix elata calli were subjected to various concentrations of biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles, ranging from a 0 mg/L control to higher doses. Treatment with 10 mg/L of ZnONPs resulted in the predominance of octadecanoic acid, 2-propenyl ester, and heptanoic acid. At a concentration of 20 mg/L, the plant calli exhibited bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate as a primary compound. The application of 30 mg/L of ZnONPs proved most effective, yielding the highest callus fresh weight and maximum phenolic and flavonoid accumulation. Finally, treating the calli with 40 mg/L of ZnONPs continued to show bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate as a predominant phytochemical component.
Preparations
Delonix elata is prepared as seeds that contain a high protein content of 48.7%. These seeds represent a promising source of low-cost protein, even exceeding the protein levels found in soybean. Additionally, the plant is utilized in traditional Siddha medicine for treating musculoskeletal ailments. Specifically, Delonix elata is used to create formulations for both internal and external applications. This dual medicinal utility makes it an important species for managing various types of pain and physical discomfort.
Parts used
Delonix elata serves as a significant medicinal plant species that can be studied through advanced tissue culture techniques. To initiate the research process, Delonix elata seeds were carefully collected and germinated to produce healthy seedlings. These seedlings were then utilized to derive calli, which provided the necessary biological material for nanoparticle testing. By analyzing these plant tissues, researchers were able to determine the species' genetic identity using specific PCR primers. This foundational relationship between the seed and the resulting callus is essential for investigating the enhancement of secondary metabolites.