Ipomoea cairica
Ipomoea cairica · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ipomoea cairica is a vigorous climbing vine known for its rapid growth and distinctive trumpet-shaped flowers. Often found in tropical and subtropical regions, this plant plays a significant role in various traditional ecological systems. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the species is highly valued for its diverse chemical profile and biological properties. One of its most notable uses involves specialized extractions to create a potent essential oil. This oil serves as a key component in various therapeutic and aromatic preparations.
- Synonyms
- Ipomoea Cavanillesii · Ipomoea Cairica Var. Uniflora · 43 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Convolvulaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Ipomoea cairica is a versatile climbing plant known by a wide array of descriptive names across different regions. It is most frequently recognized by its common titles, Cairo Morning Glory and Cairo morning-glory. In certain locales, enthusiasts may also refer to it as Campanella del Cairo or simply Campainha. Furthermore, the species is widely identified as the Coast Morning-Glory, highlighting its natural habitat. This diversity in nomenclature reflects the plant's broad geographic presence and cultural significance.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ipomoea cairica is a plant species known to be associated with several different botanical names throughout taxonomic history. It is recognized by the synonyms Batatas cavanillesii and Batatas pulchella, which highlight its complex classification. Furthermore, the plant has been identified in various texts as Batatas senegalensis. Its naming history also includes connections to the genus Convolvulus, specifically as Convolvulus bellus. Finally, the species has been documented under the synonym Convolvulus cairicus, reflecting the evolving nature of its botanical identity.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ipomoea cairica is a remarkable specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is a distinguished member of the genus Ipomoea, showcasing unique morphological traits. It further falls under the order Solanales, connecting it to a diverse group of related species. Finally, its botanical identity is solidified by its placement within the family Convolvulaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Ipomoea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ipomoea cairica exhibits a widespread distribution across various regions of the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, this species is notably found throughout Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its range also extends into the Atlantic islands of Macaronesia. Specifically, the plant can be identified within the Canary Islands and the Cape Verde archipelago. These diverse locations highlight the significant geographic reach of this particular species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ipomoea cairica is a herbaceous plant characterized by its vigorous growth. It possesses an obligatory climbing habit, requiring structural support to ascend effectively. This climbing species typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 2.5 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Ipomoea cairica contains bioactive compounds, specifically cairicosides A-E, that exhibit moderate cytotoxicity against several human tumor cell lines. The aerial parts of this plant also yield pentasaccharide resin glycosides that demonstrate strong inhibitory activity against the enzyme α-glucosidase. Specifically, the novel compounds cairicoside I-IV have been confirmed to possess this α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Furthermore, the identified compounds cairicoside A and B show measurable success in treating α-glucosidase through their inhibitory effects. These diverse chemical properties highlight the plant's potential in targeting both tumor cells and enzymatic processes.
Preparations
Ipomoea cairica is prepared as an essential oil to investigate its potential biological applications. This specific oil is extracted from the indigenous "Railway creeper" for use in laboratory bioassays. The resulting substance is tested against various vector species to evaluate its mosquito larvicidal effects. Research indicates that the prepared oil can induce 100% mortality in several mosquito larvae at specific concentrations. Ultimately, the essential oil of Ipomoea cairica serves as a potent tool for controlling mosquito populations.