Paulownia fortunei
Paulownia fortunei · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Paulownia fortunei is a distinctive plant species recognized for its impressive growth and unique biological profile. The botanical components primarily utilized for study or use include the leaf and the flower. Within its floral structures, specific chemical compounds such as 4-hydroxybenzyl-beta-d-glucoside, abscisic acid, naringenin 7-O-beta-D-glucoside, and ursolic acid can be identified. These bioactive substances are often concentrated when the plant is prepared specifically from its flowers. Understanding these chemical constituents provides valuable insight into the medicinal and biological potential of this species.
- Synonyms
- Campsis Fortunei · Paulownia Mikado · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Paulowniaceae
- Distribution
- Europe
- Plant Parts
- Flower · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Paulownia fortunei is a versatile species known by a variety of distinct common names across different cultures. It is frequently referred to as the Foxglove tree or the enchanting dragontree. In certain botanical circles, it is also identified as the paulownia Fortunego. The plant's linguistic reach extends into Cyrillic as Павловния Форчуна and into Japanese as ココノエギリ. These diverse names highlight the widespread recognition and global presence of this unique tree.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Paulownia fortunei is a botanical species that has been categorized under various names throughout scientific history. It is frequently identified by its synonym Campsis fortunei in certain older texts. Researchers have also historically referred to this plant as Paulownia duclouxii or Paulownia longifolia. Additionally, the taxonomic record includes the designations of Paulownia meridionalis and Paulownia mikado. Understanding these diverse synonyms is essential for accurately identifying the plant across different biological studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Paulownia fortunei belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, encompassing a diverse array of living organisms. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among specific vascular plants. The species is further organized into the order Lamiales, which defines its broader evolutionary lineage. It is a prominent member of the family Paulowniaceae, a group that shares distinct botanical characteristics. Finally, this plant is defined by its membership in the genus Paulownia, which characterizes its unique identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Paulowniaceae |
| Genus | Paulownia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Paulownia fortunei exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans across several distinct regions of Asia. Primarily found within temperate zones, the species is widely distributed throughout China, specifically across the South-Central and Southeast provinces. Its presence extends further into Eastern Asia, where it can be found growing in Taiwan. Interestingly, its reach also touches Western Asia, with recorded distributions in Palestine. Finally, the plant adapts to more tropical environments, establishing itself within the Indo-China region of Laos.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Paulownia fortunei is a self-supporting species characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This robust plant can reach a maximum height of 30 meters as it matures. Its impressive stature makes it a prominent feature in any landscape where it is planted.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Paulownia fortunei serves as a rich source of diverse chemical constituents, particularly within its flowers. Detailed spectroscopic analysis has revealed that the plant contains specific flavones such as 3'-O-methyldiplacol and homoeriodictyol. Additionally, researchers have identified the presence of apigenin 7-O-beta-D-glucoside among its complex organic compounds. The chemical profile is further expanded by the inclusion of 4-hydroxybenzyl-beta-D-glucoside. Finally, studies confirm that abscisic acid is also a notable component found within this species.
Conditions
Preparations
Paulownia fortunei is prepared as flowers for the purpose of studying its specific chemical constituents. Researchers utilized these floral parts to isolate various flavones through the process of column chromatography. The spectroscopic analysis of these flowers allowed for the identification of several unique compounds, such as 3'-O-methyldiplacol and various glycosides. These specific chemical structures were successfully elucidated directly from the harvested blooms. Consequently, the flowers of this plant serve as the primary source for obtaining these newly identified flavone compounds.
Parts used
Paulownia fortunei is a plant species that offers significant biochemical interest through its various morphological components. Research into the flowers of this plant has successfully identified several unique chemical constituents, including various flavones and glycosides. Specifically, compounds such as apigenin and luteolin have been isolated from the floral parts for the first time. Beyond its blooms, the leaves of the plant also serve as a valuable source of bioactive substances like ursolic acid. Studies indicate that utilizing ultramicro smashing techniques can significantly increase the extraction efficiency of these compounds from the foliage.