Knoxia sumatrensis
Knoxia sumatrensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Knoxia sumatrensis is a distinctive plant species that holds significant interest within the field of botanical research. Scientific investigations into the whole plant have revealed a complex chemical profile unique to this specimen. Specifically, researchers have identified bioactive compounds such as Noreugenin and Undulatoside A within its structure. These chemical constituents highlight the potential pharmacological importance of the species. Understanding the properties of Knoxia sumatrensis provides valuable insights into its specialized natural chemistry.
- Synonyms
- Cuncea Trifida · Ernodea Nepalensis · 19 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Knoxia sumatrensis is a fascinating plant known by a diverse array of common names across different languages and cultures. In local regions, it is frequently referred to as knoxia sumatrianska or by the Thai names ตองลาย and ฮักมะหาน. Moving into East Asian contexts, the species is recognized by the Japanese name シソノミグサ. It is also documented in Chinese records under the titles 紅芽大戟 and 諾斯氏草. This variety of nomenclature highlights the global botanical interest and the widespread distribution of this unique species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Knoxia sumatrensis is a botanical species recognized by several different scientific names within various taxonomic records. In many historical texts, it is identified by the synonym Cuncea trifida. The plant is also frequently associated with several species under the Dentillaria genus, including Dentillaria corymbosa, Dentillaria heyneana, and Dentillaria mollis. Additionally, researchers may encounter it listed under the name Ernodea nepalensis. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate identification in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Knoxia sumatrensis is a fascinating botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the specific order Gentianales, which helps define its biological characteristics. As a member of the genus Knoxia, it showcases unique structural traits common to its lineage. Finally, this species is nested within the diverse family Rubiaceae, marking its place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Knoxia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Knoxia sumatrensis is a plant species primarily distributed across various regions of Asia-Temperate. Its natural range includes several parts of China, specifically within the South-Central and Southeast territories. The species is also found on the tropical island of Hainan, showcasing its adaptability to different climates. Furthermore, its presence extends into Eastern Asia, where it can be located in both Taiwan and the Nansei-shoto islands. This diverse distribution highlights the plant's significant ecological footprint across the Asian continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Knoxia sumatrensis is a delicate herb characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This plant typically maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of only 0.9 meters. Depending on its environment, its height can vary from a minimal 0 meters to its full potential. Such compact dimensions make it a unique addition to any botanical collection.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Knoxia sumatrensis is prepared as a whole plant to facilitate the isolation of specific chemical compounds. During this process, researchers extracted four new chromone glycosides known as corymbosins K1-K4. These specialized substances were identified alongside known compounds like noreugenin and undulatoside A. The structural integrity of these isolated molecules was confirmed using intensive NMR and X-ray spectroscopic analysis. Finally, the resulting compounds were utilized to test their potential immunomodulatory activity in an in vitro setting.