Paeonia daurica
Paeonia daurica · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Paeonia daurica is a distinctive botanical species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. This plant is particularly noted for its robust antibacterial properties, which help combat various microbial threats. Furthermore, it exhibits strong antioxidant activities that assist in neutralizing harmful free radicals within the body. These biological functions are largely attributed to a high concentration of bioactive chemicals, most notably flavonoids. Consequently, the chemical profile of this species makes it a subject of great interest in pharmacological research.
- Synonyms
- Paeonia Corallina Proles Triternata · Paeonia Corallina Var. Triternata · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Paeoniaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Paeonia daurica is widely recognized by several different regional identifiers that highlight its cultural importance. In English-speaking contexts, it is most frequently referred to by the common name Crimean peony. Moving into German-speaking areas, the plant is often identified as the Krim-Pfingstrose. The variety of local names continues through linguistic shifts, appearing as Krimpion or Piwonia krymska in certain dialects. Finally, it may also be documented as kriminpioni, showcasing the diverse nomenclature used to describe this beautiful species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Paeonia daurica is a complex species that is frequently associated with several botanical synonyms in taxonomic literature. It is often identified interchangeably with the names Paeonia corallina proles triternata, Paeonia corallina subsp. triternata, and Paeonia corallina var. triternata. Furthermore, the plant is linked to variations of another species, specifically Paeonia mascula subsp. triternata and Paeonia mascula var. triternata. These overlapping designations reflect the ongoing scientific efforts to categorize its diverse morphological traits. Understanding these relationships is essential for researchers navigating the intricate nomenclature of this peony.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Paeonia daurica is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it belongs to the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Saxifragales, showcasing its unique evolutionary placement. Further refinement places the species within the specific family Paeoniaceae. Ultimately, it is defined by its membership in the prominent genus Paeonia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus | Paeonia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Paeonia daurica is a resilient species with a broad distribution spanning across the Asia-Temperate region. Its presence is particularly noted throughout the Caucasus and Transcaucasus areas, highlighting its adaptability to these terrains. The plant also extends its reach into Western Asia, finding suitable habitats within the borders of Iran. Furthermore, its range encompasses the Levant, specifically within the Lebanon-Syria corridor. Finally, the species maintains a significant foothold in the diverse landscapes of Türkiye.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Paeonia daurica is a herbaceous plant characterized by its distinct growth form. It typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 1 meter.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Paeonia daurica exhibits significant medicinal potential through its diverse biological activities. Research indicates that the leaf extracts of this endemic plant possess the highest antioxidant activity among the species studied. This high antioxidant capacity is largely attributed to a rich content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and water-soluble antioxidants like reduced glutathione. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates strong antibacterial properties, particularly against the Escherichia coli strain. Specifically, both the leaf and root extracts of Paeonia daurica showed effective minimal inhibitory concentrations, highlighting its promise as a natural antimicrobial agent.
Compounds
Paeonia daurica exhibits significant medicinal potential due to its rich chemical composition. Specifically, leaf extracts of this plant are characterized by a high concentration of flavonoids. In addition to these phenolic compounds, the leaves contain notable amounts of water-soluble antioxidants. Research highlights that the plant is particularly rich in ascorbate, which contributes to its antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, the presence of reduced glutathione in Paeonia daurica plays a crucial role in its overall biological activity.