Ligustrum obtusifolium

Ligustrum obtusifolium · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Ligustrum obtusifolium is a distinctive shrub species known for its unique botanical characteristics and potential medicinal value. Researchers have focused on this plant to explore its bioactive properties through various scientific methods. Specifically, the ethanol extract of the twigs and leaves serves as a primary subject for pharmacological investigation. This preparation allows for the isolation of key compounds that may offer significant therapeutic benefits. Understanding the chemical profile of these extracts is essential for unlocking the plant's full medicinal potential.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Ligustrum Ibota Var. Angustifolium · Ligustrum Ibota F. Tschonoskii · 26 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Oleaceae
Distribution
Southern America
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Ligustrum obtusifolium is a versatile shrub recognized by a variety of regional names across different languages. It is widely known by its English common names, such as Amur River privet and border privet. In different linguistic contexts, it is also referred to as Ligustr tępolistny or the Danish butbladet liguster. French speakers identify this species as Troène à feuilles obtuses. These diverse names reflect the plant's broad geographic reach and widespread botanical interest.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Ligustrum obtusifolium is a complex species that is frequently identified by various botanical synonyms. It is often referred to in taxonomic literature as Ligustrum amurense. Additionally, the plant shares nomenclatural ties with several varieties, including Ligustrum ciliatum var. microphyllum and Ligustrum ciliatum var. spathulatum. The species also encompasses different forms of other closely related plants, such as Ligustrum ibota f. angustifolium and Ligustrum ibota f. microphyllum. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate identification in botanical studies.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Ligustrum obtusifolium is a member of the diverse kingdom Plantae. This specific species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the order Lamiales. Within this taxonomic hierarchy, it is further nested in the family Oleaceae. It serves as a distinct representative of the genus Ligustrum. Understanding these biological relationships provides essential insight into the plant's evolutionary lineage.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Lamiales
Family Oleaceae
Genus Ligustrum

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Ligustrum obtusifolium is a plant species primarily found within the temperate regions of Asia. Its natural range is widely distributed across various parts of China, including the North-Central and Southeast provinces as well as Manchuria. Beyond the Chinese mainland, the species also establishes itself throughout much of Eastern Asia. This includes significant populations located in both Japan and Korea. Consequently, the plant maintains a broad and interconnected presence across these diverse temperate landscapes.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Ligustrum obtusifolium is a versatile shrub known for its sturdy and self-supporting structure. This plant typically maintains a controlled presence in the landscape, generally reaching a height between 2 and 3 meters. While most specimens stay within this range, some instances can reach a maximum height of 3 meters. Occasionally, certain variations may even push slightly higher, reaching up to 3.1 meters in ideal conditions. Ultimately, its reliable growth form makes it an excellent choice for various garden settings.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Preparations

Ligustrum obtusifolium is prepared as an ethanol extract using its twigs and leaves to facilitate chemical analysis. This extraction process allowed researchers to isolate seven specific compounds through the use of polystyrene resin RA and silica gel column chromatography. The identified constituents included luteolin, luteolin-4'-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside, (+)-pinoresinol, (+)-pinoresinol-4'-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside, (+)-medioresinol, and (-)-olivil. Notably, several of these compounds were isolated from this particular plant species for the very first time. The spectral analysis confirmed the structures of these elements derived from the ethanol-based preparation.

Parts used