Homalium ceylanicum
Homalium ceylanicum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Homalium ceylanicum is a distinctive plant species that holds significant interest within the botanical community. This plant is known for its unique chemical profile, which includes specialized compounds such as homaloside D. Furthermore, it contains the specific chemical constituent known as vacciniin. These biochemical properties make it a subject of study for researchers exploring natural product chemistry. Understanding the composition of Homalium ceylanicum provides valuable insights into its biological characteristics.
- Synonyms
- Homalium Ciliatum · Homalium Laoticum · 13 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Salicaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Temperate
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Homalium ceylanicum is a distinctive botanical species that is recognized by several different names in various regions. It is commonly referred to by the name 光叶天料木 in certain linguistic contexts. Additionally, the plant is frequently identified as 斯里兰卡天料木, highlighting its potential geographical connections. These varying common names serve to distinguish the plant within different botanical communities. Understanding these relationships is essential for researchers and enthusiasts tracking this specific species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Homalium ceylanicum is a complex botanical subject that is associated with several scientific synonyms. Throughout taxonomic studies, it has been identified under various names, including Blakwellia ceylanica and Blakwellia tetrandra. The plant's classification also encompasses Homalium balansae and Homalium bhamoense within its shifting nomenclature. Furthermore, the specific variety Homalium bhamoense f. glabra is recognized as a synonym in this group. Understanding these diverse designations is essential for accurate identification and botanical research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Homalium ceylanicum is a distinct biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Malpighiales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. This plant is a member of the Salicaceae family, which helps define its botanical characteristics. Ultimately, it is identified by its placement within the genus Homalium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Homalium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Homalium ceylanicum is a versatile species with a wide geographic distribution spanning both temperate and tropical regions of Asia. In China, it can be found across diverse landscapes, including the South-Central and Southeast provinces as well as the island of Hainan. The plant also extends its reach into the unique high-altitude environment of Tibet. Beyond the borders of China, its presence is noted within the tropical climate of the Indian Subcontinent, specifically in the Assam region. This broad range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various ecological niches throughout the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Homalium ceylanicum is a prominent tree species characterized by its robust and self-supporting growth form. This botanical specimen exhibits significant vertical variability, with heights ranging from a minimum of 6 meters to a maximum of 40 meters. Depending on its environment, the tree typically establishes a substantial presence, often reaching heights between 25 and 40 meters. Such impressive stature allows it to stand out within its native ecosystem. Ultimately, its structural integrity and impressive scale make it a notable component of the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Homalium ceylanicum is a member of the Flacourtiaceae family that has undergone detailed phytochemical investigation. Through the analysis of its n-BuOH fraction, researchers successfully isolated several significant chemical compounds. Notably, the plant contains the compound vacciniin, which is identified as 6-O-benzoyl-D-glucopyranoside. Furthermore, the species is found to contain homaloside D, a newly identified benzenoid glucoside. These findings were confirmed using advanced chemical and NMR structural elucidation techniques.