Radermachera xylocarpa
Radermachera xylocarpa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Radermachera xylocarpa is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its unique chemical profile. The plant is notably rich in bioactive compounds, specifically alpha-lapachone and lapachol. Research often focuses on the therapeutic potential found within the stem of this particular plant. Specifically, the chloroform extract of the powdered stem bark is frequently utilized in pharmacological investigations. These studies aim to better understand how these extracted chemicals interact with biological systems.
- Synonyms
- Stereospermum Xylocarpum · Spathodea Xylocarpa · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Synonyms
Radermachera xylocarpa is a botanical subject that has been identified by several different scientific names throughout history. In various taxonomic records, the plant is recognized by its synonym Bignonia xylocarpa. It has also been classified under the name Spathodea xylocarpa in certain botanical contexts. Furthermore, the species is associated with the synonym Stereospermum xylocarpum. Finally, researchers may encounter this same plant listed as Tecoma xylocarpa within older literature.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Radermachera xylocarpa is a distinctive species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Lamiales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. Furthermore, this plant is a member of the Bignoniaceae family, which provides insight into its structural characteristics. Ultimately, it is defined by its specific placement within the genus Radermachera.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Radermachera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Radermachera xylocarpa is a distinctive botanical species primarily distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Its natural presence is most notably concentrated within the Indian Subcontinent, where it thrives in specific ecological niches. Within the vast borders of India, the plant plays a unique role in the local biodiversity of its native habitats. This widespread yet specific geographic range highlights its adaptation to warm, humid environments characteristic of the region. Understanding these distribution patterns is essential for researchers studying the ecological connectivity of tropical flora.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Radermachera xylocarpa is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a sturdy tree. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 8 meters as it matures. Its structural integrity allows it to grow upright and maintain a consistent presence in its environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Radermachera xylocarpa serves as a highly efficient biological source for several significant chemical compounds. Research into the plant's stem bark has revealed that its chloroform extract is composed of primary bioactive constituents. Specifically, the plant contains lapachol, which makes up a substantial 91.2% of the extract. Additionally, the species contains alpha-lapachone, representing approximately 5.0% of the identified components. These findings represent the first report of these substances being isolated from this plant in such high levels of quantity and purity.
Conditions
Preparations
Radermachera xylocarpa is prepared as a chloroform extract of the powdered stem bark to isolate its major chemical constituents. This specific preparation method allows for the efficient extraction of lapachol and its derivatives. Through this process, the extract was found to contain 91.2% lapachol and 5.0% alpha-lapachone. These primary components were reported for the first time from this plant in high levels of quantity and purity. The resulting chloroform extract serves as a highly efficient source for these significant chemical compounds.
Parts used
Radermachera xylocarpa serves as a highly efficient source for the production of lapachol and its various derivatives. Scientific investigations have focused on the isolation and characterization of major chemical constituents found specifically within the plant's stem bark. Analysis of the chloroform extract from the powdered stem reveals a composition dominated by lapachol at 91.2%. Additionally, the presence of alpha-lapachone at 5.0% has been reported for the first time from this species. These findings highlight the significant medicinal potential held within the structural components of the plant.