Lonchocarpus chiricanus

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Sources: Wikidata

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta and class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized under the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Fabales. Finally, it is a member of the Fabaceae family and is identified by the genus Lonchocarpus.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant is characterized by a very specific and limited geographical range. Its natural distribution is strictly confined to the region of Central America. Within this area, it is found exclusively in the country of Panamá. This localized presence suggests that the species relies on the unique ecological conditions provided by the Panamanian landscape. Consequently, conservation efforts for this medicinal plant must focus on protecting its specific habitats within this single nation.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Lonchocarpus chiricanus is characterized by its presence across a diverse altitudinal gradient, ranging from sea level up to an elevation of 1000 m AMSL. This broad elevational range suggests a capacity to inhabit various ecological niches, spanning from lowland coastal or riverine environments to mid-elevation tropical landscapes. By occupying these different altitudes, the species interacts with varying microclimates, soil compositions, and moisture levels, which likely influences its distribution and growth patterns within its native habitat.

Elevational range max:

1000 m AMSL

Elevational range min:

0 m AMSL

Morphology

The morphology of Lonchocarpus chiricanus is characterized by a woody growth form, specifically manifesting as a tree. In terms of its ecological positioning and habit, the plant is strictly terrestrial, lacking aquatic or semiaquatic adaptations, and does not function as an epiphyte in either an obligatory or facultative capacity. It maintains an independent life cycle as a non-parasitic organism, meaning it is neither an obligatory nor a facultative parasite. Furthermore, while some members of similar botanical groups may exhibit climbing behaviors, this species is characterized as self-supporting rather than acting as a liana, vine, or any other form of obligatory or facultative climber.

Aquatic :

terrestrial

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

tree

Parasite :

independent

Woodiness :

woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Plant Parts

Lonchocarpus chiricanus has 1 reported plant parts identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases that are studied for medicinal purposes. The most consistently reported plant part include root.

Root

1. Journal of natural products

Chemicals

Lonchocarpus chiricanus has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include 3,5-Dimethoxystilbene.

3,5-Dimethoxystilbene

1. Journal of natural products

Preparations

Lonchocarpus chiricanus has 1 reported preparations identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported preparations include root bark.

Root bark

1. Journal of natural products