Erythronium japonicum
Erythronium japonicum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Erythronium japonicum is a unique perennial plant known for its distinctive spring blooms and specialized ecological role. Researchers have increasingly focused on this species to explore its complex chemical composition and potential pharmacological benefits. Among the various methods studied, the production of methanol extracts has proven particularly effective for isolating bioactive compounds. These extracts serve as a vital resource for investigating the plant's underlying therapeutic properties. Understanding the constituents within these preparations provides essential insights into the medicinal value of this specific taxon.
- Synonyms
- Erythronium Japonicum F. Immaculatum
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Liliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Erythronium japonicum is a unique woodland plant recognized by several distinct regional names. In Japan, it is most commonly referred to as the Japanese hundtandslilja or simply katakuri. Moving into different linguistic contexts, the species is also known by the name zhu ya hua. Furthermore, it carries the specific designation of 车前叶山慈姑 in certain botanical circles. These various names reflect the diverse cultural and linguistic ways this elegant flower is identified across different regions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Erythronium japonicum is a distinctive plant species that is sometimes identified by its botanical synonym, Erythronium japonicum f. immaculatum. This taxonomic relationship indicates that the latter name refers to a specific form within the broader species. Such nomenclature helps botanists categorize subtle variations in appearance or growth patterns found in the wild. Understanding these connections is essential for accurate scientific documentation and plant identification. Consequently, recognizing these synonyms ensures consistency across various botanical studies and field guides.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Erythronium japonicum is a unique specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its evolutionary lineage continues through the order Liliales, placing it in a specific botanical group. Furthermore, this plant is a member of the Liliaceae family, which defines its structural characteristics. Ultimately, its taxonomic identity is solidified by its placement within the genus Erythronium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Erythronium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Identification
Morphology
Erythronium japonicum is a delicate herb characterized by its modest and graceful growth form. As a self-supporting species, it stands firmly within its natural habitat without the need for external assistance. This plant maintains a very compact stature, typically reaching a maximum height of only 0.3 m. Its vertical presence is quite consistent, generally staying within a narrow range between 0.25 m and 0.275 m. Such precise dimensions contribute to the unique charm of this small woodland treasure.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Erythronium japonicum demonstrates significant cytotoxic activity when treated against HCT-116 cells. In the methanol extract studies, this plant exhibited an IC50 value of 44.06 microg mL(-1) against this specific cancer cell line. It follows Petasites japonicus and Angelica gigas in terms of potency regarding HCT-116 cytotoxicity. This relationship highlights the plant's potential role in medicinal applications targeting these cells. The effectiveness of the extract is part of a broader trend of potent cytotoxicity observed among the studied Korean salad plants.
Preparations
Erythronium japonicum is prepared as methanol extracts to evaluate its medicinal properties. These specific extracts were tested for their antioxidant activity and potential cytotoxicity against HCT-116 cells. Within the study, the methanol extracts of this plant demonstrated an IC50 value of 44.06 microg mL(-1). This measurement helps categorize its potency in comparison to other Korean medicinal salad plants. The preparation of these methanol extracts is central to understanding the plant's bioactive potential.