Selaginella pallescens
Selaginella pallescens, commonly known as a species of spike moss, is a fascinating vascular plant valued in traditional medicine. Often found in moist, shaded habitats, it possesses unique biological properties. Researchers study its chemical constituents to explore potential therapeutic applications, particularly regarding its antioxidant and bioactive medicinal qualities.
- Scientific name: Selaginella pallescens
- Family: Selaginellaceae
- Native range: Northern America
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, specifically classified within the class Equisetopsida and subclass Lycopodiidae. It is further categorized under the order Selaginellales and the family Selaginellaceae. Ultimately, its taxonomic identity is defined by its placement within the genus Selaginella.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Lycopodiidae | WCVP |
| Order | Selaginellales | WCVP |
| Family | Selaginellaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Selaginella | WCVP |
Common Names
This plant, Selaginella pallescens, is known by various names depending on the regional language and local tradition. In English, it is commonly referred to as the pale spike moss, while in Spanish, it is known as musgo de piedra pálido. In Portuguese, the plant is called musgo de pedra pálido, and in French, it is identified as mousse de pierre pâle.| Language | Common Name | Source |
|---|
Distribution
This plant exhibits a widespread presence across several distinct regions within Mexico. Its geographical range encompasses the diverse landscapes of Mexico Central and the coastal areas of Mexico Gulf. Additionally, the species can be found extending into the arid reaches of Mexico Northwest and Mexico Southwest. Further documentation confirms its occurrence within the specific environmental niches of Mexico Northeast. Together, these locations illustrate the broad ecological distribution of Selaginella pallescens throughout the country.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico | Mexico Central | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Northeast | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Gulf | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Northwest | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Southwest | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Southeast | WCVP |
| Central America | Belize | WCVP |
| Central America | Costa Rica | WCVP |
| Central America | El Salvador | WCVP |
| Central America | Guatemala | WCVP |
Chemicals
Selaginella pallescens has 3 reported phytochemicals identified across 3 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include amentoflavone, robustaflavone, trehalose.
- Total chemicals
- 3
- Scientific sources
- 3
Most Reported Compounds
| Compound | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| amentoflavone | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| robustaflavone | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| trehalose | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Medicinal Uses
Selaginella pallescens has 1 reported medicinal uses identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include gastrointestinal disorders.
- Total uses
- 1
- Scientific sources
- 1
Most Reported Uses
| Use | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| gastrointestinal disorders | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |