Ugni candollei
Ugni candollei · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ugni candollei is a distinctive plant species widely recognized for producing flavorful, edible berries. These small fruits serve as the primary part of the plant used for various culinary and medicinal preparations. Scientific analysis reveals that the berries contain specialized chemical compounds, including 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid and ellagic acid acetyl-xyloside. Additionally, the presence of phloretin 2'-O-xylosyl-glucoside contributes to the complex phytochemical profile of the fruit. Understanding these constituents highlights the botanical importance and potential health benefits associated with this species.
- Synonyms
- Myrtus Candollei · Myrtus Krausei · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Ugni candollei is a versatile plant known by several different regional names depending on the local culture. It is most frequently referred to by the common name Murta, though it is also widely recognized as Murta blanca. In certain areas, people may call the species chauchau or tautau to distinguish it. Within Chile specifically, the plant is often identified by its local name, trautrau. These diverse monikers highlight the various ways this species is integrated into different linguistic landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ugni candollei is a botanical subject that has been identified through several different scientific names over time. In various taxonomic records, it is frequently referred to by the synonyms Myrtus candollei and Myrtus krausei. The plant's classification also encompasses the name Ugni krausei, reflecting different historical perspectives on its identity. Furthermore, specific forms of the species are documented as Ugni candollei f. litoralis and Ugni candollei f. monticola. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for accurately tracking the plant's lineage and botanical history.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ugni candollei is a distinctive botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological group, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Myrtales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Myrtaceae family, it shares characteristics with many other aromatic shrubs. Finally, this species is defined by its placement within the genus Ugni.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Ugni |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ugni candollei is a resilient plant primarily found throughout the diverse landscapes of Southern America. Its natural range extends significantly across the southern reaches of the South American continent. Specifically, this species thrives within the central regions of Chile. It also maintains a presence further south, establishing itself in the southern territories of the country. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various southern climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ugni candollei grows in a characteristic shrub form, creating a lush and textured presence in the landscape. This plant is entirely self-supporting, allowing it to maintain its structural integrity without the need for external assistance.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Ugni candollei, a native Chilean berry commonly known as white murta, possesses a remarkably diverse and complex polyphenol profile. Recent analytical studies using advanced mass spectrometry have successfully identified several unique phenolic compounds within this cultivar. Notably, the plant contains 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid and ellagic acid acetyl-xyloside, both of which were highlighted as prominent constituents. Furthermore, the research identified the presence of phloretin 2'-O-xylosyl-glucoside among its various chemical components. These findings suggest that the berry's rich chemical makeup may be linked to significant biological activities.
Conditions
Preparations
Ugni candollei is prepared as berries, which are a native Chilean fruit known as white murta. These berries serve as the primary source for the extraction and identification of various polyphenols. Researchers utilize the berries to profile a wide range of phenolic compounds, including anthocyanins and flavonoids. Different methods, such as hot pressurized water extraction, are applied to the berry material to isolate these bioactive substances. Ultimately, the study focuses on the chemical composition found within these prepared berries.
Parts used
Ugni candollei, widely recognized by its common name white murta, is a native Chilean species valued for its nutritious fruit. These berries serve as a significant source of diverse bioactive compounds, particularly various types of polyphenols. Recent scientific investigations have utilized advanced mass spectrometry to identify a vast array of phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids within the fruit. This detailed chemical profiling reveals that the berries contain many unique compounds that have not been previously documented in this specific cultivar. Understanding the composition of these fruits highlights their immense potential for various biological and nutritional applications.