Fritillaria tortifolia

Fritillaria tortifolia · Accepted scientific name

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

Fritillaria tortifolia is a distinctive member of the lily family known for its unique botanical characteristics. This plant is primarily valued for its specialized underground structures, specifically its bulbs. These bulbs serve as the essential preparation for various traditional and medicinal applications. Cultivating this species requires an understanding of its specific growth requirements and bulb maintenance. As a specialized organism, it remains a subject of interest for both botanists and herbalists alike.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Fritillaria Tortifolia Var. Plena · Fritillaria Tortifolia Var. Wusunica · 1 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Liliaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Fritillaria tortifolia is a unique botanical species known by several distinct regional names. In certain contexts, it is referred to by the common name keerdlehine püvilill. Its identity is also well-recognized in Chinese linguistic traditions through various labels. Specifically, it is known as 托星贝母 and 托里贝母 depending on the specific local nomenclature used. Understanding these diverse names is essential for anyone studying the plant's widespread cultural and scientific presence.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Fritillaria tortifolia is a botanical species that encompasses several distinct taxonomic variations. Within its classification, it is recognized by multiple synonyms that describe its diverse forms. These include the specific variety known as Fritillaria tortifolia var. barlikensis. Furthermore, the plant is also identified by the names Fritillaria tortifolia var. plena and Fritillaria tortifolia var. wusunica. Understanding these relationships is essential for accurately documenting the plant's complex botanical identity.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Fritillaria tortifolia is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Liliales, which provides a framework for its biological characteristics. The plant is a member of the Liliaceae family, a group known for its distinct floral structures. Ultimately, it is identified by its specific genus, Fritillaria, marking its unique place in the natural world.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Liliales
Family Liliaceae
Genus Fritillaria

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Fritillaria tortifolia is a distinctive species primarily found within the Asia-Temperate region. Its natural range is specifically concentrated in the vast landscapes of China. Within this territory, the plant is most notably documented occurring in the Xinjiang province. This specific distribution highlights the unique ecological niche the species occupies in its native habitat. Understanding these geographical patterns is essential for researchers studying the plant's environmental requirements.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Fritillaria tortifolia stands as a self-supporting plant, maintaining its own structural integrity without the need for external assistance.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Fritillaria tortifolia serves as a rich source of diverse isosteroidal alkaloids found within its bulbs. Recent chemical analyses have successfully isolated several unique substances, including Compound 1 and Compound 2, from this specific plant. Compound 1 represents a significant discovery as the first 5β-cevanine alkaloid with a cis A/B ring junction identified in the Fritillaria genus. Additionally, Compound 2 distinguishes itself as the first known example of a glycosylated isosteroidal alkaloid N-oxide. These findings highlight the complex chemical profile of Fritillaria tortifolia and its potential pharmacological importance.

Conditions

Preparations

Fritillaria tortifolia is prepared as bulbs for the extraction of various chemical compounds. These bulbs serve as the primary source for isolating several isosteroidal alkaloids, including the newly identified frititorines A-C. Researchers utilize the bulbs to study specific molecular structures through spectroscopic and crystallographic analyses. One notable alkaloid derived from these bulbs, compound 1, demonstrates a significant relaxant effect on tracheal contractions. Consequently, the bulb-based preparation of this plant provides essential material for pharmacological research.

Parts used