Illicium tashiroi
Illicium tashiroi · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Illicium tashiroi is a distinctive evergreen shrub belonging to the Illiciaceae family, native to the temperate forests of Japan. This species is highly regarded in botanical circles for its glossy foliage and delicate, fragrant blossoms. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the plant serves as a significant subject in organic chemistry research. Scientists have identified the presence of the specific chemical compound tricyclocillicinone within its biological makeup. Understanding these unique chemical properties provides valuable insights into the complex secondary metabolites produced by this resilient shrub.
- Synonyms
- Illicium Randaiense · Illicium Anisatum Var. Tashiroi
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Schisandraceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Illicium tashiroi is a unique botanical species recognized by several distinct common names across different regions. In certain contexts, it is referred to by its Japanese name, ヤエヤマシキミ. It is also widely known by the Chinese designation 巒大八角. Furthermore, the plant is identified as 東亞八角 in various botanical records. These diverse naming conventions highlight the plant's widespread cultural and linguistic significance.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Illicium tashiroi is a plant species that is subject to various botanical classifications within scientific literature. Taxonomists have identified several synonyms for this plant, including the designation Illicium anisatum var. tashiroi. Additionally, the name Illicium randaiense is recognized as another synonymous descriptor for the species. Understanding these various labels is essential for researchers tracking the plant's unique genetic and physical traits. Navigating these nomenclatural relationships ensures accuracy when studying its place within the Illicium genus.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Illicium tashiroi is a fascinating botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Austrobaileyales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. This species is a member of the family Schisandraceae, which highlights its specific biological connections. Ultimately, it is defined by its placement within the genus Illicium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Austrobaileyales |
| Family | Schisandraceae |
| Genus | Illicium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Illicium tashiroi is a distinctive plant species primarily found within the temperate regions of Asia. Its natural distribution is concentrated across Eastern Asia, where it thrives in specific ecological niches. Specifically, this species can be located throughout various landscapes in Japan. Additionally, its presence extends to the island of Taiwan, marking a significant part of its geographical range. Understanding these regional patterns is essential for grasping the plant's ecological importance within its native habitat.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Illicium tashiroi is characterized by its distinct growth form as a tree.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Illicium tashiroi serves as the natural source for the isolation of a novel prenylated C6-C3 compound known as tricycloillicinone. This unique substance was specifically identified and extracted from the woody components of the plant. Through detailed spectroscopic analyses, researchers successfully elucidated the complex tricyclic structure of the compound. Once isolated, tricycloillicinone demonstrated significant neurotrophic properties during laboratory testing. Specifically, it has been shown to increase choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity within cultured rat septal neurons.
Conditions
Illicium tashiroi provides the source for tricycloillicinone, a novel prenylated C6-C3 compound isolated from its woods. This specific substance acts as a neurotrophic agent that increases choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity. Laboratory studies demonstrate that the compound enhances ChAT activity within cultures of P10 rat septal neurons. By stimulating this enzyme, the compound from the plant exhibits significant potential in neurochemical modulation. This relationship highlights the biochemical capacity of Illicium tashiroi derivatives to influence cholinergic systems.