Vincetoxicum tanakae

Vincetoxicum tanakae, commonly known as Japanese vincetoxicum, is a climbing herbaceous plant native to East Asia. Traditionally utilized in folk medicine, it is recognized for its unique phytochemical profile. Researchers are currently exploring its bioactive compounds for potential therapeutic applications, particularly in managing inflammatory conditions and various metabolic processes.

  • Scientific name: Vincetoxicum tanakae
  • Family: Apocynaceae
  • Native range: Asia-Temperate

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Gentianaales, it is classified under the family Apocynaceae and the genus Vincetoxicum.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Gentianales WCVP
Family Apocynaceae WCVP
Genus Vincetoxicum WCVP

Common Names

This plant, Vincetoxicum tanakae, is known by various names depending on the region and language. In Japanese, it is commonly referred to as Tanaka-fushibugusa (タナカフシブグサ), while in English, it is often identified by its descriptive common name, Tanaka's vincetoxicum.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant is indigenous to specific regions within Eastern Asia. Its primary distribution can be found throughout the archipelago of Japan. Furthermore, it is also located within the Nansei-shotō island chain. These areas represent the core geographical range for the species. Consequently, its natural habitat is strictly limited to these East Asian territories.

Region Area Source
Eastern Asia Japan WCVP
Eastern Asia Nansei-shoto WCVP