Garcinia intermedia
Garcinia intermedia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Garcinia intermedia is a tropical evergreen shrub known for its unique fruit and significant chemical profile. Researchers have identified several specialized compounds within this species, including (+)-Morelloflavone and (+)-Volkensiflavone. Additionally, the plant contains bioactive molecules such as 32-Hydroxy-ent-guttiferone M and 6-Epi-Clusianone. These chemical constituents are often studied for their potential pharmacological properties and biological activities. Much of the concentrated chemical interest regarding this species focuses on the specialized components found within the seed.
- Synonyms
- Rheedia Intermedia · Rheedia Edulis · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Clusiaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Temperate
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Garcinia intermedia is a versatile tropical plant known by a diverse array of regional names. In various locales, it is affectionately referred to as the lemon drop mangosteen or the fruit de mono. Some communities also identify this species as Jorco, highlighting its local cultural significance. In other parts of the world, it may be called madroño de monte or the mangostan pośredni. This variety of nomenclature illustrates how deeply rooted the plant is in different linguistic landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Garcinia intermedia is a plant species that has been identified by several different botanical names throughout history. Scientific literature classifies various synonyms for this plant, including the name Calophyllum edule. It is also frequently referred to in older texts as Rheedia edulis or Rheedia intermedia. Furthermore, the designation Rheedia tonduziana serves as another recognized synonym within its taxonomic profile. Understanding these various nomenclatures is essential for researchers tracking the botanical lineage of the species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Garcinia intermedia is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. This plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida and falls within the diverse order Malpighiales. Within this taxonomic structure, it is a member of the Clusiaceae family. Furthermore, it is identified by its specific genus, Garcinia. Understanding these biological relationships provides essential insight into the plant's evolutionary history.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Clusiaceae |
| Genus | Garcinia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Garcinia intermedia boasts a widespread geographic range that spans across significant portions of the Americas. In Northern America, its presence is particularly notable throughout various regions of Mexico, including the Central, Gulf, and Southeast territories. The species also extends its reach into the Southwest of Mexico, demonstrating a high level of adaptability to different climates. Moving further south, the plant establishes itself within Central America, specifically throughout Belize. This diverse distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive across multiple tropical and subtropical landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Garcinia intermedia is a self-supporting plant that typically adopts a tree-like growth form. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, this species can reach a maximum height of 10 meters. In some optimal settings, the plant may even grow taller, reaching a peak height of up to 20 meters. This versatile stature makes it a notable feature in various tropical landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Garcinia intermedia serves as a rich source of various bioactive polyisoprenylated benzophenones. Chemical analysis has confirmed that this plant contains 32-Hydroxy-ent-guttiferone M, a compound notable for its significant antioxidant activity. Furthermore, the species is characterized by the presence of 6-Epi-Clusianone and 6-Epi-Guttiferone J. It also harbors other important phytochemicals such as Guttiferone A and Guttiferone E. These diverse chemical constituents highlight the complex secondary metabolism found within the plant.
Conditions
Preparations
Parts used
Garcinia intermedia, often studied alongside related species like Rheedia edulis, possesses a significant seed component that serves as a rich source of chemical compounds. Just as researchers have successfully isolated polyisoprenylated benzophenones from the seeds of Rheedia edulis, the botanical profile of Garcinia intermedia relies heavily on its reproductive structures. These seeds can yield various bioactive molecules, including benzophenones and biflavonoids, which are critical for pharmacological exploration. Scientific analysis of such seeds often involves complex NMR spectroscopic data to elucidate precise molecular structures. Understanding these plant-part relationships is essential for identifying new compounds with potential antioxidant activities.