Uraria sinensis

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Desmodium bonatianum
• Uraria hamosa var. sinensis

Sources: Wikidata, Catalogue of Life

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, placing it within the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. It is further classified under the order Fabales and the family Fabaceae. Within this botanical hierarchy, the medicinal species is identified by the genus Uraria.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a wide geographical presence across various regions within China. It is commonly found throughout the South-Central and North-Central parts of the country. Additionally, the species thrives in the tropical landscapes of Hainan. Its distribution also extends into the Southeast regions of China. Finally, the plant can be identified growing in the high-altitude terrains of Tibet.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Uraria sinensis is characterized by its specific niche within high-altitude montane environments, where it thrives within a distinct vertical distribution. This species is primarily found in specialized mountainous habitats, occupying an elevational range that begins at 1800 m AMSL and extends up to a maximum of 2600 m AMSL. Within this altitudinal belt, the plant is adapted to the unique climatic conditions, such as varying temperature gradients and moisture levels, typical of these high-elevation ecosystems. Its presence is closely tied to these specific topographical constraints, which define the environmental limits of its natural habitat.

Elevational range max:

2600 m AMSL

Elevational range min:

1800 m AMSL

Morphology

The morphology of Uraria sinensis is characterized by a growth form classified as a shrub, exhibiting a woody structure throughout its development. As a terrestrial species, it grows in soil rather than as an epiphyte. In terms of its climbing habit, the plant functions as a self-supporting climber, utilizing its structural integrity to ascend without the absolute necessity of external hosts.

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

shrub

Woodiness :

woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Uraria sinensis has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Urariasinoside A.

Urariasinoside A

1. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)