Polyalthia suberosa
Polyalthia suberosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Polyalthia suberosa is a botanical species recognized for its unique chemical composition and structural characteristics. Scientific research has identified specific bioactive compounds within the plant, including N-trans-Coumaroyltyramine, N-trans-Feruloyltyramine, and Suberosol. These noteworthy chemicals are primarily concentrated within the stem of the plant. Studying these elements provides valuable insights into the secondary metabolites produced by this particular species. Understanding the relationship between its chemical constituents and its stem structure remains a key focus of its study.
- Synonyms
- Guatteria Suberosa · Uvaria Suberosa · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Annonaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Temperate
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Polyalthia suberosa is a distinctive species known by several different names across various regions. In English-speaking contexts, it is most commonly referred to as the Corky Debbar Tree. Within Chinese nomenclature, the plant is also recognized by the names 暗罗 and 黑皮根. These diverse labels reflect the plant's widespread cultural and botanical significance. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for anyone researching the diverse linguistic identity of this unique species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Polyalthia suberosa is a plant species known to be associated with several different taxonomic names within botanical literature. Throughout various studies, it has been identified by the synonym Guatteria suberosa. The plant is also linked to the name Miliusa concinna in certain botanical classifications. Furthermore, it has been documented under the synonym Uvaria suberosa, reflecting different historical perspectives on its genus. Finally, the variety known as Polyalthia suberosa var. laevis is also recognized as a synonymous designation for this species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Polyalthia suberosa belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida, showcasing its fundamental botanical structure. It further finds its place in the order Magnoliales, which connects it to a diverse group of flowering plants. As a member of the genus Polyalthia, it shares specific morphological traits with its close relatives. Finally, this plant is categorized within the Annonaceae family, highlighting its distinct evolutionary lineage.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Polyalthia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Polyalthia suberosa is a versatile plant species with a broad geographical footprint spanning across various Asian regions. Its distribution extends into temperate climates within China, including the specific areas of Southeast China and Hainan. Moving into tropical zones, the species is well-established throughout the Indian Subcontinent. Specifically, it can be found thriving in the landscapes of Assam and Bangladesh. Finally, its presence is widely noted across the diverse environmental terrains of India.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Polyalthia suberosa is a self-supporting shrub that adds structural interest to various landscapes. This resilient plant typically reaches a maximum height of 4 meters as it matures. Its compact growth form makes it an ideal choice for garden borders or low hedging.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Polyalthia suberosa serves as a significant botanical source for several chemically diverse compounds. Research has identified the presence of N-trans-coumaroyltyramine and N-trans-feruloyltyramine within the plant's stems. Furthermore, the species yields a unique C31 lanostane-type triterpene known as suberosol. This specific compound has demonstrated promising anti-HIV replication activity in laboratory settings. Together, these findings highlight the complex chemical profile and potential medicinal value of this plant.
Conditions
Polyalthia suberosa contains a specific anti-HIV principle known as suberosol. This newly identified C31 lanostane-type triterpene was isolated from the plant to demonstrate therapeutic potential. Structural characterization confirms that suberosol is a 24-methylenelanost-7,9(11)-diene-3 beta, 15 alpha-diol. In laboratory testing, the compound effectively inhibits HIV replication within H9 lymphocyte cells. It achieves this anti-HIV activity with an EC50 value of 3 micrograms/ml.
Preparations
Parts used
Polyalthia suberosa serves as a significant biological source for the isolation of diverse chemical compounds. Researchers have successfully identified the azaanthracene alkaloid kalasinamide within the stems of this plant species. In addition to this specific alkaloid, the stems also contain the known compounds N-trans-feruloyltyramine and N-trans-coumaroyltyramine. Scientists utilized various spectroscopic methods to accurately elucidate these complex molecular structures. These findings highlight the rich phytochemical profile present in the stem tissue of the plant.