Zinnia juniperifolia
Zinnia juniperifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Zinnia juniperifolia is a distinctive plant that has garnered scientific interest due to its potential medicinal properties. Recent investigations have focused on its significant antibacterial activities against various pathogens. Specifically, research has demonstrated its effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of Bacillus subtilis. The plant also shows promising results in combating the common bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. These findings highlight the importance of exploring this species for future pharmacological applications.
- Synonyms
- Crassina Juniperifolia · Diplothrix Juniperifolia
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Zinnia juniperifolia is a resilient plant that is widely recognized by its local common name, zacate pastor. This species is often sought after for its ability to thrive in specific environmental conditions while maintaining a distinct aesthetic. Understanding its cultural connections helps gardeners appreciate the historical context behind its widespread use. By learning about its traditional identity, one gains a deeper respect for the plant's role in its native landscape. Ultimately, knowing it as zacate pastor connects the botanical name to its rich, living heritage.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Zinnia juniperifolia is a botanical species that is known by several different scientific names within various taxonomic records. Researchers and botanists may encounter this plant listed under the synonym Crassina juniperifolia depending on the specific literature being consulted. Similarly, the name Diplothrix juniperifolia serves as another recognized synonym for this particular plant. These varying designations often reflect the evolving nature of plant classification and historical naming conventions. Understanding these relationships is essential for anyone seeking to accurately identify the species across different scientific databases.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Zinnia juniperifolia belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse world of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, grounding its biological structure. As a member of the order Asterales, it shares evolutionary traits with a wide array of flowering plants. This species is further nested within the prominent family Asteraceae, known for its complex flower heads. Finally, its specific identity is defined by its placement within the genus Zinnia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Zinnia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Zinnia juniperifolia is a resilient plant species primarily found throughout much of Northern America. Its natural distribution extends significantly into the diverse landscapes of Mexico. Within this country, the plant is particularly prevalent across the Northeast region. It also maintains a strong presence throughout the Northwest territories of Mexico. This broad range allows the species to thrive in various ecological niches across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Zinnia juniperifolia has been identified as a source of bioactive compounds with notable medicinal potential. Specifically, researchers have isolated the δ-elemenolide known as juniperin from this plant species. During pharmacological testing, this compound demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against various pathogens. It proved particularly effective against Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, yielding impressive minimum inhibitory concentrations. These findings highlight the importance of studying Zinnia juniperifolia for the discovery of new antimicrobial agents.
Compounds
Conditions
Zinnia juniperifolia contains the $\delta$-elemenolide known as juniperin, which possesses significant antibacterial properties. This specific compound demonstrates effectiveness in treating the bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Furthermore, juniperin shows potent activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The study recorded minimum inhibitory concentrations of 4 $\mu$g/mL for Bacillus subtilis and 8 $\mu$g/mL for Staphylococcus aureus. These results highlight the plant's ability to combat these specific bacterial pathogens.