Shepherdia canadensis
Shepherdia canadensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Shepherdia canadensis, commonly known as russet buffaloberry, is a hardy deciduous shrub native to various regions of North America. This plant is recognized for its ability to thrive in diverse environments, ranging from riverbanks to dry, rocky slopes. In pharmacological studies, researchers frequently utilize methanolic extracts to isolate its diverse range of bioactive secondary metabolites. These preparations are essential for evaluating the plant's potential antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Understanding the chemical profile of these extracts provides valuable insight into the therapeutic possibilities offered by this resilient species.
- Synonyms
- Elaeagnus Canadensis · Lepargyrea Canadensis · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Elaeagnaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Shepherdia canadensis is a versatile shrub known by several different names depending on the region and language. In English-speaking areas, it is frequently called the Canada buffaloberry or the Canadian buffalo-berry. It is also recognized by the descriptive name Russet buffaloberry, highlighting its distinctive color. Moving into different linguistic traditions, the plant is referred to as Canadisk bøffelbær in Norwegian. Finally, German speakers identify this species as the Kanadische Büffelbeere.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Shepherdia canadensis is a botanical species that has been identified through various taxonomic classifications over time. Scientific literature frequently lists several synonyms for the plant, including the names Elaeagnus canadensis and Hippophae canadensis. It has also been referred to in historical records as Lepargyrea canadensis. Furthermore, the specific variety Shepherdia canadensis f. xanthocarpa is recognized as a formal synonym within its botanical lineage. Understanding these shifting nomenclatures is essential for researchers tracking the plant's diverse taxonomic history.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Shepherdia canadensis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a specialized branch of the living world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and falls into the order Rosales. Its taxonomic lineage continues through the family Elaeagnaceae, which highlights its unique botanical characteristics. Furthermore, this plant is a distinct member of the genus Shepherdia. Understanding these relationships provides essential insight into the biological identity of this resilient species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus | Shepherdia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Shepherdia canadensis is a resilient species widely distributed across various regions of Northern America. Its presence is particularly notable throughout Eastern Canada, where it thrives in diverse environments. Specifically, this plant can be found spanning from the rugged landscapes of Labrador and Newfoundland to the coastal areas of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Additionally, its reach extends inland to include the expansive territories of Ontario. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to the varying climates found across the eastern part of the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Shepherdia canadensis is a self-supporting shrub that maintains a sturdy and upright growth form. This resilient plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.8 meters in the wild. Its compact structure makes it a versatile addition to various natural landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Shepherdia canadensis demonstrates potential anticancer properties through its methanolic extracts. In cytotoxicity assays, these extracts were tested specifically against mouse mastocytoma cells. The results of these evaluations were shown to be positive regarding their ability to treat these cells. This finding highlights the plant's role in medicinal research focused on combating specific cancer cell lines. Consequently, the species serves as a subject of interest for further pharmacological study into its therapeutic capabilities.
Preparations
Shepherdia canadensis is prepared as methanolic extracts to investigate its potential medicinal properties. These specific chemical preparations were utilized during cytotoxicity assays to test for anticancer activity. Researchers focused on the effects of these extracts against mouse mastocytoma cells. The results of these tests demonstrated a positive response regarding the plant's ability to combat such cells. This study highlights how the methanolic extraction of the species serves as a method for evaluating its biological potential.