Erythrina latissima
Erythrina latissima · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Erythrina latissima is a significant botanical species that has been studied for its diverse chemical properties, particularly concerning the compound DE 1. Research involving this plant focuses on various components, including the seeds, leaves, roots, and stems. Scientific investigations often utilize specific conditions such as the application of Tissue Plasminogen Activator and trypsin to analyze its biological activity. Studies frequently involve specialized preparations derived from the root wood and the stem bark to extract essential bioactive agents. Understanding these complex interactions provides valuable insights into the medicinal potential inherent within this plant.
- Synonyms
- Erythrina Sandersonii · Corallodendron Latissimum · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Europe
- Plant Parts
- Seed · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Erythrina latissima is a botanical specimen known by a diverse array of common names across different regions. It is frequently referred to as the Broad-leaved Coral Tree or the Broadleaf Coral Tree due to its distinctive characteristics. In some areas, locals may call it the Breëblaarkoraalboom, reflecting its specific linguistic roots. It is also widely recognized by the descriptive names Broad-Leaved Erythrina and Broad-Leaved Luckybean. These various titles all point to the same unique species, highlighting its cultural and botanical significance.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Erythrina latissima is a plant species known to be associated with several different botanical names. It is recognized by the synonym Corallodendron latissimum in various taxonomic records. Additionally, the species has been identified under the name Erythrina gibbsiae in certain contexts. The plant is also linked to the synonym Erythrina sandersonii, reflecting its complex classification history. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Erythrina latissima is a distinctive botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Fabales, which helps define its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Fabaceae family, it shares biological traits with many other well-known legumes. Ultimately, this species is categorized under the genus Erythrina, marking its unique place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrina |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Erythrina latissima is a resilient species found across several diverse regions within the African continent. Its natural distribution spans much of Southern Africa, including the Cape Provinces and Eswatini. The plant also thrives within the subtropical landscapes of Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Furthermore, it can be located throughout various parts of Botswana. This broad geographical range highlights the adaptability of the species to different local environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Erythrina latissima is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct tree-like growth form. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 12 meters as it matures. However, it can also be found in smaller instances, with a minimum height of approximately 3 meters. These dimensions contribute to its presence within its natural ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Erythrina latissima, commonly known as the broad-leaved erythrina, serves as the natural source for several unique proteinase inhibitors. Among these bioactive compounds, researchers have successfully purified a specific inhibitor identified as DE-1 from its seeds. This particular substance demonstrates a selective ability to inhibit bovine chymotrypsin while leaving bovine trypsin unaffected. Based on molecular weight and amino acid composition, DE-1 displays characteristics closely resembling Kunitz-type proteinase inhibitors. Such findings highlight the complex biochemical potential stored within the seeds of this specific plant species.
Conditions
Erythrina latissima demonstrates significant biological potential through its various inhibitory and antibacterial properties. Specifically, the ethanol and ethyl acetate bark extracts of this species exhibit notable anti-bacterial activity. The plant also shows effectiveness in prostaglandin synthesis-inhibitory activities via its cyclooxygenase inhibiting properties. Furthermore, a specific protein found within its seeds acts to inhibit the activity of tissue plasminogen activator. This same seed protein also functions as a potent inhibitor of trypsin.
Preparations
Erythrina latissima is prepared as root wood to facilitate the isolation of specific isoflavone glycosides. Research conducted on the root wood identified three distinct molecular structures, including a new dimethoxy isoflavone compound. Additionally, Erythrina latissima is prepared as stem bark for the extraction of various isoflavonoids. This stem bark preparation yielded a new isoflavanone along with several flavanones and a feruloyl ester. These different plant parts serve as essential sources for studying the chemical constituents of the species.
Parts used
Erythrina latissima is a versatile legume species characterized by a variety of biologically active components found throughout its anatomy. Scientific studies have identified specialized proteins and alkaloids within the seed, which can be utilized for biochemical purification processes. The leaves and bark are also significant, demonstrating notable cyclooxygenase inhibiting and anti-bacterial properties. Furthermore, the plant's root wood serves as a source for unique isoflavone glycosides. Finally, chemical analysis of the stem bark has revealed the presence of novel isoflavonoids and feruloyl esters.