Entandrophragma candollei

Entandrophragma candollei · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Entandrophragma candollei is a distinctive tree species recognized for its significant botanical and economic importance. The plant is particularly noted for its sturdy stem, which serves as a primary structural component of its growth. From this stem, specialized preparations of the stem barks are often harvested for various traditional or industrial uses. These bark preparations are frequently studied for their unique chemical properties and potential medicinal applications. Understanding the characteristics of the stem and its derivatives is essential for the effective utilization of this species.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Entandrophragma Choriandrum · Entandrophragma Ferrugineum
Common names
Not available
Family
Meliaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Stem

Classification

Common Names

Entandrophragma candollei is a remarkable tree species known by several distinct regional names. It is frequently referred to by the common name Cedar Kokoti in certain areas. Many people also recognize this plant as the kosipo, a name that carries significant local recognition. Furthermore, it is sometimes identified as omuafrikanmahonki, reflecting its diverse linguistic associations. These varied names highlight the widespread importance and cultural presence of the species.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Entandrophragma candollei is a botanical species that is frequently identified through various scientific names. Within taxonomic literature, it is recognized as having a direct synonymy with Entandrophragma choriandrum. Furthermore, the species is also linked to the synonym Entandrophragma ferrugineum. These overlapping designations highlight the complexities often found in the classification of forest flora. Understanding these relationships is essential for researchers seeking to maintain accurate botanical records.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Entandrophragma candollei is a remarkable biological specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the flowering plants. It further falls into the order Sapindales, a group known for its diverse botanical characteristics. As a member of the genus Entandrophragma, it exhibits unique traits specific to its lineage. Ultimately, this intricate classification places the species within the prominent family Meliaceae.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Sapindales
Family Meliaceae
Genus Entandrophragma

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Entandrophragma candollei is a notable plant species primarily distributed across the diverse landscapes of West Tropical Africa. Its presence is firmly established within the nation of Ghana, where it plays a role in the local ecosystem. The species also flourishes throughout Guinea and the Ivory Coast, spanning significant portions of the region. Furthermore, its natural range extends into Liberia, showcasing its adaptability to various tropical environments. Finally, the distribution of this plant is completed by its occurrence within the borders of Nigeria.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Entandrophragma candollei is a magnificent tree characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. This impressive species dominates its environment by reaching significant vertical proportions. Typically, these trees maintain a height of at least 45 meters. Under optimal conditions, they can reach a maximum stature of approximately 48.77 meters.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Preparations

Entandrophragma candollei is prepared as stem barks to facilitate the isolation of specific chemical compounds. Researchers utilized these stem barks, collected from Ghana, to extract two new phragmalin-type limonoids orthoesters known as encandollens A and B. The chemical structures of these substances were meticulously elucidated through various advanced spectroscopic techniques. These isolated limonoids were subsequently tested for their biological activity in cellular models. Specifically, the compounds derived from the stem barks demonstrated weak inhibitory effects on NO production.

Parts used

Entandrophragma candollei serves as a significant source of unique chemical compounds found within its botanical structure. Specifically, researchers have successfully isolated two new phragmalin-type limonoid orthoesters from the stem barks of this species. These newly discovered compounds, identified as encandollens A and B, were characterized through advanced spectroscopic techniques. The analysis revealed that one of these substances is a rare C-15 enolic acyl phragmalin-type limonoid orthoester. Furthermore, preliminary studies indicate that these stem-derived compounds exhibit weak inhibitory effects on NO production in certain immune cells.