Search

Many studies have examined the morphological and micromorphological responses of different halophytes to determine their salt tolerance mechanisms. However, few studies have focused on the South African edible halophytes. This study examined the leaf micromorphology, elemental composition, and anatomical responses using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) to examine salt tolerance levels in Trachyandra ciliata (L.F) Kunth. The treatments included varying sodium chloride (NaCl) concentrations: 50 mM, 100 mM, 150 mM and 200 mM, while control (0 mM) was watered with nutrient solution only. From the SEM micrographs, salt glands were observed protruding from the epidermis along the vascular system under low salinity and salt crystals appeared under higher concentrations, which makes this plant maintain cellular homeostasis under high salinity, and the plant can be classified as a recretohalophyte. Stomatal distribution, stomatal density and the number of open stomata decreased with increasing salinity. EDX revealed the presence of some important elements such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium and more in the leaves. The results showed that increased salinity led to a decrease in the percentage composition of P, K and Ca2+, while Mg2+ was high under the control and low salinity (50 mM), decreased under 100 mM and increased again with increasing salinity. On the contrary, increasing salinity caused an increase in Na+ and Cl- in a stable manner. These findings reveal that T.ciliata acquires salt tolerance through changes to its leaf surface properties, osmotic adjustment, and the regulation of Na+ uptake and distribution in the leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eremurus was described at the beginning of the 19th century. However, due to limited sampling and the small number of gene markers to date, its phylogeny and evolution are largely unknown. In this study, we analyzed plastomes from 27 species belonging to 2 subgenera and 3 sections of Eremurus, which are found in Central Asia (its center of diversity) and China. We also analyzed nuclear DNA ITS of 33 species, encompassing all subgenera and sections of the genus in Central Asia, southwest Asia and China. Our findings revealed that the genus was monophyletic, although both subgenera Eremurus and Henningia were found to be paraphyletic. Both plastome and nrDNA-based phylogenetic trees had three clades that did not reflect the current taxonomy of the genus. Our biogeographical and time-calibrated trees suggest that Eremurus originated in the ancient Tethyan area in the second half of the Eocene. Diversification of Eremurus occurred from the early Oligocene to the late Miocene. Paratethys Sea retreat and several orogenetic events, such as the progressive uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and surrounding mountain belts (Altai, Pamir, Tian Shan), caused serious topographic and climate (aridification) changes in Central Asia that may have triggered a split of clades and speciation. In this transformed Central Asia, speciation proceeded rapidly driven mainly by vicariance caused by numerous mountain chains and specialization to a variety of climatic, topographic and soil conditions that exist in this region.

AbstractEremurus zoae Vved. 1971 is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Asphodelaceae and an endemic species of the Kyrgyz Republic; however, its complete chloroplast genome sequence has not been reported. Here, we investigated the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. zoae using next-generation sequencing. The cp genome was 153,744 bp long, with a large single copy (84,020 bp), a small single copy (16,766 bp), and a pair of inverted repeats (26,479 bp). The genome encodes 132 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the genus Eremurus forms a monophyletic group and E. zoae is closely related to E. chinensis. This study provides a molecular foundation for future phylogenetic studies of Eremurus.

Eremurus zoae Vved. 1971 is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Asphodelaceae and an endemic species of the Kyrgyz Republic; however, its complete chloroplast genome sequence has not been reported. Here, we investigated the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. zoae using next-generation sequencing. The cp genome was 153,744 bp long, with a large single copy (84,020 bp), a small single copy (16,766 bp), and a pair of inverted repeats (26,479 bp). The genome encodes 132 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the genus Eremurus forms a monophyletic group and E. zoae is closely related to E. chinensis. This study provides a molecular foundation for future phylogenetic studies of Eremurus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractDianella ensifolia (L.) Redouté 1802 is a plant known for its significant medicinal values. In this study, we presented its chloroplast genome. The length of the chloroplast genome was found to be 156,571 bp, with a GC content of 37.86%. It consisted of a large single-copy (LSC) of 85,318 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) of 18,307 bp, a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 26,473 bp each that separated the LSC and SSC regions. The chloroplast genome of D. ensifolia consisted of 114 unique genes, including 80 protein-coding genes, four rRNA genes, and 30 tRNA genes. Through phylogenetic analysis, we identified a close relationship between D. ensifolia and D. nigra. This newly sequenced chloroplast genome not only enhances our understanding of the genome of Dianella, but also provides valuable insights for the evolutionary study of the family Asphodelaceae.

Dianella ensifolia (L.) Redouté 1802 is a plant known for its significant medicinal values. In this study, we presented its chloroplast genome. The length of the chloroplast genome was found to be 156,571 bp, with a GC content of 37.86%. It consisted of a large single-copy (LSC) of 85,318 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) of 18,307 bp, a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 26,473 bp each that separated the LSC and SSC regions. The chloroplast genome of D. ensifolia consisted of 114 unique genes, including 80 protein-coding genes, four rRNA genes, and 30 tRNA genes. Through phylogenetic analysis, we identified a close relationship between D. ensifolia and D. nigra. This newly sequenced chloroplast genome not only enhances our understanding of the genome of Dianella, but also provides valuable insights for the evolutionary study of the family Asphodelaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TWENTY species that belong to 13 genera under six families, two belonging to order Asparagales and four to order Liliales, are subjected in this recent work. Micromorphological leaf characters using both Light and Scanning Electron microscopes have been studied. The pavement cells, hairs, prickles and stomatal characters beside stomatal density and index have been calculated. The data obtained has been subjected to clustering analyses using Paleontological Statistics (PAST) program. The results which were obtained from this study do not give clear separations between the two orders or even the families and considered the studied six families have common leaf characters. Meanwhile, characters of epidermal cells, hairs, papillae, prickles, and stomata can give clear features in the identification of some species. Hence, we can conclude that the separation of these orders and families and their taxonomic ranking need further investigation to clarify the perfect relation between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is one of the most common pathologies in the world, leading to a reduced standard of living and even death for centuries. Despite promising developments in treatment methods in recent years, the expected level of treatment and success hasn't yet been achieved due to the side effects and cost of treatment methods and the fact that some drugs are still in the trial phase. This situation has encouraged the scientific community to search for natural agents with lower costs and limited side effects. Abies cilicica, also known as fir, and Aloe vera has been used in both food and traditional medicine from the past to the present. In the literature review, it was found that both A. vera and A. cilicica have many beneficial effects, especially anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and wound-healing properties. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and apoptotic/necrotic effects of extracts of A. vera from Asphodelaceae and A. cilicica (Ant. Et Kotschy.) subsp. cilicica Carr. from Pinaceae. The best antimicrobial activity was observed against Escerichia coli with a zone diameter of 20.00 ± 3.59 mm and Klebsiella pneumoniae with a zone diameter of 21 ± 5.35 mm. 2KA showed the best effect on antioxidant activity. 2MA + 2KSA showed significant cytotoxic activity on MDA-MB-231 cancer cells. IC50 values of 1EA + 1KA extract (whole A. cilicica and A. vera dissolved in ethanol) against MDA-MB-231 cell line (IC50 458.29 ± 19.01 µg/ml) and MCF-7 cell line (IC50 596.03 ± 5.56 µg/ml) were determined. According to the data obtained from the study, A. vera and A. cilicica were found to have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects both alone and synergistically. It is predicted that they can be used especially in cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Quaternary climate changes dramatically affected species' distributions and thus impacted genetic diversity patterns, particularly for rear‐edge populations. Empirical studies have shown the southernmost (rear‐edge), fragmented populations of Japanese woody plants can harbour high genetic diversity owing to their origin in southern glacial refugia. The effect of Holocene climate warming on rear‐edge populations has, however, rarely been demonstrated. We assessed whether the genetic structure of populations of temperate plants in Japan can be interpreted to show legacies of both icy (Last Glacial Maximum, LGM) and warm (Holocene) climates. Location: Japanese Archipelago. Taxon: Hemerocallis middendorffii (Asphodelaceae). Methods: Population genetic profiles of 737 individuals from 41 populations were analysed to examine population structure and past population demography, using 12 EST‐SSR markers. Present and past suitable habitat areas during the LGM and the Holocene climatic optimum were estimated by ecological niche modelling (ENM). Reconstructed palaeodistribution was combined with population genetics to statistically predict population demographics in relation to past climate changes. Results: Genetic analysis of the 41 populations revealed 6 regional population groups. Four groups widely dominating the northern–central ranges harboured high genetic diversity, whereas genetic divergence within the groups was low. In contrast, the two groups at the southwestern edge were geographically and genetically isolated, and they showed the lowest genetic diversity. The estimated palaeodistributions showed a decrease in the suitable range during the Holocene in comparison with that at the LGM, and only habitat suitability in the Holocene was able to predict the genetic diversity across the range. Main conclusions Populations at the centre of the current distribution harbour high genetic diversity because they remained stable during both cold and warm periods. However, habitat fragmentation and population decline in relation to climate warming during the Holocene resulted in genetic isolation and impoverishment of the rear‐edge populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caesia walalbai A.T.Webb, Birch & R.L.Barrett (Asphodelaceae, Hemerocallidoideae) is described as a new species endemic to south-east Queensland, Australia. It is distinguished from other white-flowered, eastern Australian Caesia species by long, often recurved pedicels and entirely yellow staminal filaments. Caesia walalbai is notable for having 23 observations on the citizen science platform iNaturalist, all made in the last three years, while a similar number of herbarium specimens have been collected, the first in 1959. The species was also collected on the Carnarvon Station Reserve BushBlitz in 2014. A new description of Caesia parviflora R.Br. s. str. is provided based on specimens collected in the Sydney region of New South Wales, the type location for the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Emodin, rhein and aloe-emodin have been demonstrated for their significant antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. • Anthraquinones have been reported as potent antiviral agents against different viral infections including those infecting human respiratory tract. • Polygonaceae, Rubiaceae and Asphodelaceae have been found to be potential reservoir of naturally occurring anthraquinones. • Plants of Polygonaceae family have been found as the major source of antiviral anthraquinones. Medicinal plants are being used as an alternative source of health management to cure various human ailments. The healing role is attributed to the hidden dynamic groups of various phytoconstituents, most of which have been recorded from plants and their derivatives. Nowadays, medicinal plants have gained more attention due to their pharmacological and industrial potential. Aromatic compounds are one of the dynamic groups of secondary metabolites (SM) naturally present in plants; and anthraquinones of this group are found to be attractive due to their high bioactivity and low toxicity. They have been reported to exhibit anticancer, antimicrobial, immune-suppressive, antioxidant, antipyretic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory activities. Anthraquinones have been also shown to exhibit potent antiviral effects against different species of viruses. Though, it has been reported that a medicinal plant with antiviral activity against one viral infection may be used to combat other types of viral infections. Therefore, in this review, we explored and highlighted the antiviral properties of anthraquinones of Polygonaceae, Rubiaceae and Asphodelaceae families. Anthraquinones from these plant families have been reported for their effects on human respiratory syncytial virus and influenza virus. They are hence presumed to have antiviral potential against SARS-CoV as well. Thus, anthraquinones are potential candidates that need to be screened thoroughly and developed as drugs to combat COVID-19. The information documented in this review could therefore serve as a starting point in developing novel drugs that may help to curb the SARS-COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phormium tenax (harakeke, New Zealand flax: Asphodelaceae) has long been considered indigenous to New Zealand (including the Chatham Islands) and Norfolk Island. However, the indigeneity of P. tenax on Norfolk Island, in particular, has been challenged by an alternative hypothesis that it was introduced by East Polynesians prior to European colonisation. We tested this alternative hypothesis using a dated phylogenetic tree. We also tested whether dated phylogenetic trees of Phormium could be reconciled with vicariance explanations of its distribution. We examined near-complete plastid genome sequences of P. tenax, P. cookianumand related plants. We then undertook Bayesian and likelihood estimation of the age of the divergence between Norfolk Island and New Zealand accessions using fossil calibration, and separately using biogeographic calibration assuming vicariance explanations of trans-oceanic distributions. DNA sequences of Norfolk Island plants were invariant and nested well within the wider diversity of P. tenax. Estimates of divergence times using fossil calibration did not exclude a common ancestor as recent as the second millennium CE. DNA sequences of Chatham Islands P. tenax were also nested within the diversity of P. tenax from New Zealand, but age estimates were older for their divergence from New Zealand plants (around 20,000–400,000 years). Biogeographic calibrations resulted in extremely ancient ages (tens of billions of years) of deeper nodes within the tree or several orders of magnitude variation in rates among lineages. Our results are consistent with translocation of harakeke by East Polynesian people, but our analyses cannot exclude a Late Quaternary natural dispersal event, which might result in similar genetic patterns. Biogeographic calibrations based on the break-up of Gondwana imply major departures from contemporary ideas of Earth's history, or orders of magnitude rate variation among lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemerocallis citrina is a perennial herbaceous plant that is dedicated to mothers in Chinese culture and is widely distributed across the country. As a popular species with a long history of cultivation and utilization, it is renowned for its remarkable edible and medicinal value. In this study, we integrated Illumina short-read and Oxford Nanopore long-read sequencing to generate a complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) assembly of H. citrina. The H. citrina mitogenome has a multiple chromosomal structure consisting of three circular molecules that are 45,607 bp, 239,991 bp, and 182,864 bp long. We correspondingly annotated 66 genes, comprising 45 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 17 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. Comparative analysis of gene organization indicated that six syntenic gene clusters were conserved in the mitogenomes of the compared plants. The investigation of repeat content revealed repeat-rich nature of the H. citrina mitogenome, for which plentiful dispersed repeats were characterized to correlate with the size of the mitogenome. The codon usage behavior disclosed that Leucine (Leu) and Serine (Ser) were the most preferred amino acids in H. citrina, and nearly all of the codons with relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) values greater than 1 showed the preference of A or T ending. Moreover, we inferred a total of 679 RNA editing sites in all mitochondrial PCGs, which presented perfect C-to-U types and tended to lead to the alteration of internal codons. Subsequent selective pressure analysis showed that the majority of the PCGs had undergone evolutionary negative selections, with atp9 in particular undergoing strong stabilizing selection, reflecting its indispensable function in mitogenomes. According to the phylogenetic analysis, H. citrina is close to the species Allium cepa (Amaryllidaceae) and Asparagus officinalis (Asparagaceae) in evolutionary terms. Overall, this project presents the first complete mitogenome of H. citrina, which could provide a reference genome for the comprehensive exploration of the Asphodelaceae family and can facilitate further genomic breeding and evolutionary research on this medicine-food homologous plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild leafy vegetables are commonly included in the diet of people in rural homesteads. Among various wild edible vegetables in South Africa, Trachyandra divaricata (Sandkool) is one of the most abundant but underutilized due to the dearth of literature on its cultivation and nutritional value. In the present study, the effect of potassium application and pruning on growth dynamics, mineral composition, and proximate and phytochemical content in T. divaricata were evaluated. Treatments consisted of three potassium concentrations (0.0072, 0.0144, and 0.0216 M) supplemented in the form of potassium sulphate (K2SO4) with four pruning levels (unpruned, 5, 10, and 15 cm) applied in each treatment. The potassium doses were added to the nutrient solution, while the control treatment was sustained and irrigated with nutrient solution only. The results revealed a significant increase in flower bud yield, height, total dry and wet weight of shoots and roots, as well as ash and neutral detergent fibre in plants irrigated with 0.0072 M of K2SO4 without pruning. Conversely, chlorophyll content and Ca were comparable among treatments, while the highest yield of Na, P, N, and Zn was recorded in treatment 100 mL of K2SO4 with 10 cm pruning. Likewise, the highest antioxidant value (Polyphenols, Flavonol and DPPH) was obtained from plants irrigated with 0.0072 M of K2SO4 with 10 cm pruning. Based on these findings, T. divaricata is a promising leafy vegetable as a minimum dose (0.0072 M) of K with moderate pruning optimised its productivity in terms of growth, biomass parameters, nutritional content, and antioxidant potential. Due to its rich nutritional value, the plant should be domesticated and studied further for its potential nutraceutical benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Kulturstudier is the property of Dansk Historisk Faellesraad and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Dianella ensifolia is a perennial herb with thickened rhizome and is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands. This plant has the potential to be used as a source of herbal medicine. This study investigated further phytochemistry and tyrosinase inhibitory effect of some constituents isolated from D. ensifolia. Four new flavans, (2S)-4'-hydroxy-6,7-dimethoxyflavan (1), (2S)-3',4'-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-8-methylflavan (2), (2S)-2'-hydroxy-7-methoxyflavan (3), and (2S,1′S)-4-hydroxy-4-(7-methoxy-8-methylchroman-2-yl)-cyclohex-2-enone (4), together with 67 known compounds, including 10 flavans (5–14), 5 flavanones (15–19), 3 flavone (20–22), 5 chalcones (23–27), 3 chromones (28–30), 15 aromatics (31–45), 7 phenylpropanoids (46–52), one lignan (53), 7 steroids (54–60), one monoterpene (61), one diterpene (62), 4 triterpenes (63–66), a carotenoid (67), 2 alkaloids (68 and 69), and 2 fatty acids (70 and 71) were isolated from D. ensifolia. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of physical and spectroscopic data analyses. Moreover, compounds 1–4, 8, 10–15, 20, 21, and 41 were evaluated for their mushroom tyrosinase inhibitory effect. Compounds 11 and 14 strongly inhibited mushroom tyrosinase activity with IC50 values of 8.6 and 14.5 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Unlike most aloes, Aloe reitzii var. reitzii is self-compatible. • Aloe reitzii var. reitzii is reliant on pollinators to transfer pollen between flowers. • Bees facilitate self-pollination in Aloe reitzii var. reitzii , suggesting a mixed-mating system. • Since Aloe reitzii var. reitzii appears not capable of autonomous self-pollination, mixed mating provides some reproductive assurance in Aloe reitzii var. reitzii. • Pollinator-mediated geitonogamy reduces fecundity in Aloe reitzii var. reitzii. Floral adaptations, notably floral design and display, enable plants to govern their mating opportunities through pollinator attraction and pollen dispersal. However, large floral displays, together with multiple simultaneously open flowers in an hermaphroditic plant, increase the potential for geitonogamous self-pollination. Many angiosperms have evolved self-incompatibility that prevents self-fertilization, instead requiring outcrossing by pollen vectors for successful seed set. We investigated the reliance of the summer-flowering Aloe reitzii var. reitzii on pollinators for reproduction and by using controlled hand-pollination experiments to determine whether Aloe reitzii var. reitzii is self-compatible. Contrary to most aloes, Aloe reitzii var. reitzii is shown here to be partially self-compatible, but reliant on pollinators to transfer pollen between flowers within the same raceme or plant, as well as to other plants. Aloe reitzii var. reitzii appears incapable of autonomous self-pollination and pollinator-mediated geitonogamy causes reduced fecundity in Aloe reitzii var. reitzii. However, hand-selfed treatments produced viable seeds capable of germinating, suggesting that the partial self-compatibility in Aloe reitzii var. reitzii does provide some reproductive advantage and may have evolved due to its restricted distribution and increasing population fragmentation – possibly due to anthropogenic change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genus Kniphofia and Aloe belong to Asphodeloideae and Alooideae subfamily of Asphodelaceae respectively. Asphodelaceae is a family of lily-related monocotyledonic flowering plants with 2 subfamilies, 16 genera and about 780 species distributed in arid and mesic regions of the temperate, subtropical and tropical zones of the old world, with the main center of diversity in southern Africa. The genus Kniphofia has about 70 species distributed in eastern and southern Africa, including the 7 species known to occur in Ethiopia, of which 5 species are endemic. Aloe is the largest genus among the Asphodelaceae family and it comprises of more than 400 species that are widely distributed in Africa, India, and other arid areas, with the major diversity in South Africa. The leaves of Kniphofia species are non-succulent, unlike the leaves of Aloe species. Aloe species are distinguished by having fleshy and cuticularized leaves usually with spiny margins. Kniphofia species have regular flowers with fused tepals while Aloe species have regular flowers with free tepals. Both Kniphofia and Aloe species have been employed in ethnopharmacology and have provided many bioactive compounds through phytochemical-pharmacological research works. They are traditionally used for treatment of various diseases by herbalists. Both genus elaborate naphthoquinone, preanthraquinone, anthraquinones and alkaloids in common. Additionally, Kniphofia elaborates benzene, naphthalene, and phloroglucinol derivatives while Aloe produces anthrones and chromones. The genus Kniphofia is rich in Knipholone type compounds while the genus Aloe is rich in anthrone-C-glycosides. Secondary metabolites isolated from the two genus have wide range of pharmacological activities such as antiplasmodial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. There is no published review article on the botanical description, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of the genus Kniphofia and only few review articles are available on the genus Aloe. In this review, an attempt is made to present pharmacological activities and secondary metabolites reported to date from genus Kniphofia and Aloe. Secondary metabolites reported from both plant genus have interesting biological activities so the authors of this review paper strongly recommend studies on toxicity of these compounds and their structural activity relationship so as to develop new pharmaceutical drug.

We here describe Dianella lignosa R.L.Barrett & M.D.Barrett (Asphodelaceae) as a new species from the Kimberley region of Western Australia, previously included under Dianella longifolia R.Br. The new species is readily identifiable by its thick, woody lateral rhizomes, and also differs from D. longifolia in leaf and floral characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG2) is to end hunger, improve food security and nutrition and promote sustainable crop production by 2050. However, climate change, increasing soil salinization and the inadequate availability of fresh water have negatively affected crop production around the world including South Africa, making it difficult to meet the required target. This necessitates the use of wild edible plants that are adapted to adverse conditions such as drought and salinity in order to mitigate this problem. The genus Trachyandra (Asphodelaceae) consist of three edible species (T. ciliata, T.divaricata and T./alcata) which are native to the dry saline environments of the western Cape coastal sand dunes. The genus is less studied with no record of cultivated species, although the existing literature states that T. ciliata, (wild cabbage) was originally used as a food source by the indigenous Khoi-san people who lived on the South African Cape coast. Colonization and removal of indigenous people from cultural lands led to erosion and detachment from the knowledge of the land and its useful plants. The species is used in selected restaurants where the inflorescence is steamed and eaten as a vegetable or added into a stew. This review explores the importance of Asphodelaceae family, T.ciliata as a vegetable crop and its potential as a pharmaceutical candidate. Furthermore, this review examines potential technological advances such as hydroponics that could be used for sustainable crop production of Z ciliata. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) was utilized in the selection of articles in this review. The existing literature provided useful information on the potential of T.ciliata as a vegetable crop and the importance of using halophytes to achieve food security. This appraisal is expected to serve as a template for researchers, food enthusiasts, potential farmers and policy makers who may be keen in exploring further nutritional composition and medicinal potential of this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Aloe from the Indian Desert, India, is described and illustrated as Aloe trinervis sp. nov. The new species shows similarity with Aloe vera in having succulent, rosette leaves, persistent bracts, free tepals, and six stamens but differs in the recurved teeth instead of deltoid teeth on the leaf margins, 3-nerved bracts, branched and taller inflorescences (90–95 cm long), longer flowers of 31–34 mm in length, flowers with a pale green color being brownish at middle, and longer stamens (29–33 mm). A detailed description with data on its distribution and relevant taxonomic notes, comparative morphological, and color photo plate are provided for easy identification of the proposed new species, A. trinervis in relation to A. vera.

Abstract Background Asphodelus tenuifolius Cav. (Asphodelaceae) has traditional reputability in treatment of diarrhea and constipation but no scientific study has been reported for its gastrointestinal effects. Present study was conducted to evaluate antidiarrheal and laxative activities of the plant. Methods Aqueous-ethanol crude extract of Asphodelus tenuifolius (At.Cr) was subjected to phytochemical screening and liquid-liquid fractionation. In vivo studies of charcoal meal intestinal transit test, antidiarrheal activity against castor oil induced diarrhea and laxative activity were performed in mice. In vitro experiments were conducted upon rabbit jejunum preparations using standard tissue bath techniques. Results Phytochemical screening indicated presence of alkaloids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, tannins and phenols in At.Cr. In charcoal meal intestinal transit test, At.Cr increased (p

Wild leafy vegetables are commonly included in the diet of people in rural homesteads. Among various wild edible vegetables in South Africa, Trachyandra divaricata (Sandkool) is one of the most abundant but underutilized due to the dearth of literature on its cultivation and nutritional value. In the present study, the effect of potassium application and pruning on growth dynamics, mineral composition, and proximate and phytochemical content in T. divaricata were evaluated. Treatments consisted of three potassium concentrations (0.0072, 0.0144, and 0.0216 M) supplemented in the form of potassium sulphate (K2SO4) with four pruning levels (unpruned, 5, 10, and 15 cm) applied in each treatment. The potassium doses were added to the nutrient solution, while the control treatment was sustained and irrigated with nutrient solution only. The results revealed a significant increase in flower bud yield, height, total dry and wet weight of shoots and roots, as well as ash and neutral detergent fibre in plants irrigated with 0.0072 M of K2SO4 without pruning. Conversely, chlorophyll content and Ca were comparable among treatments, while the highest yield of Na, P, N, and Zn was recorded in treatment 100 mL of K2SO4 with 10 cm pruning. Likewise, the highest antioxidant value (Polyphenols, Flavonol and DPPH) was obtained from plants irrigated with 0.0072 M of K2SO4 with 10 cm pruning. Based on these findings, T. divaricata is a promising leafy vegetable as a minimum dose (0.0072 M) of K with moderate pruning optimised its productivity in terms of growth, biomass parameters, nutritional content, and antioxidant potential. Due to its rich nutritional value, the plant should be domesticated and studied further for its potential nutraceutical benefits.

Eremurus zoae Vved. 1971 is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Asphodelaceae and an endemic species of the Kyrgyz Republic; however, its complete chloroplast genome sequence has not been reported. Here, we investigated the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of E. zoae using next-generation sequencing. The cp genome was 153,744 bp long, with a large single copy (84,020 bp), a small single copy (16,766 bp), and a pair of inverted repeats (26,479 bp). The genome encodes 132 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the genus Eremurus forms a monophyletic group and E. zoae is closely related to E. chinensis . This study provides a molecular foundation for future phylogenetic studies of Eremurus ., Competing Interests: No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors., (© 2024 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.)

The bulb flora of prefecture (nomos) Ilias in NW Peloponnese, Greece is documented with an emphasis on its distribution within the administrative unit. Families, genera and species are presented in alphabetical order. Each taxon is accompanied by a photograph, description, habitat, ecology and distribution dot map. This is the third contribution of the series and deals with four families - the Asphodelaceae comprising two genera, Asphodeline and Asphodelus, the Colchicaceae comprising its own genus Colchicum, the Fumariaceae with the genus Corydalis and Geraniaceae, with Geranium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of salinity and soilless media on the vegetative growth, phytochemicals, and antioxidant capacity of Trachyandra ciliata (wild cabbage) to develop its growth protocol and explore its potential as a natural source of secondary metabolites. Treatments consisted of different concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl), control-0 mM, 100 mM, 200 mM, 400 mM, while different in vitro assays were used for phytochemical and antioxidant screenings. Findings from the study showed that low salinity (100 mM) significantly increased chlorophyll content, plant height, leaf number, plant fresh weight, and production of inflorescence, particularly in Peat-Perlite-Vermiculite (PPV) medium. In contrast, the control was the most productive treatment in plant dry weight except for the inflorescence. The highest antioxidant activity was observed in 200 mM of NaCl treatment in combination with PPV medium, which also produced the highest mean values for polyphenols, while 100 mM was the best for flavonols. Therefore, T. ciliata proved to be more productive vegetatively under low salinity in combination with PPV soilless media. A combination of 200 mM + PPV treatment was also recommended for maximum production of antioxidants for T. ciliata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dianella ensifolia is a perennial herb with thickened rhizome and is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands. This plant has the potential to be used as a source of herbal medicine. This study investigated further phytochemistry and tyrosinase inhibitory effect of some constituents isolated from D. ensifolia. Four new flavans, (2S)-4’-hydroxy-6,7-dimethoxyflavan (1), (2S)-3’,4’-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-8-methylflavan (2), (2S)-2’-hydroxy-7-methoxyflavan (3), and (2S,1′S)-4-hydroxy-4-(7-methoxy-8-methylchroman-2-yl)-cyclohex-2-enone (4), together with 67 known compounds, including 10 flavans (5–14), 5 flavanones (15–19), 3 flavone (20–22), 5 chalcones (23–27), 3 chromones (28–30), 15 aromatics (31–45), 7 phenylpropanoids (46–52), one lignan (53), 7 steroids (54–60), one monoterpene (61), one diterpene (62), 4 triterpenes (63–66), a carotenoid (67), 2 alkaloids (68 and 69), and 2 fatty acids (70 and 71) were isolated from D. ensifolia. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of physical and spectroscopic data analyses. Moreover, compounds 1–4, 8, 10–15, 20, 21, and 41 were evaluated for their mushroom tyrosinase inhibitory effect. Compounds 11 and 14 strongly inhibited mushroom tyrosinase activity with IC50 values of 8.6 and 14.5 μM, respectively.

The genus Corynotheca F.Muell. ex Benth. is revised and Corynotheca borealis R.L.Barrett, Keighery & T.Macfarlane is described as a new species from the east Kimberley region of Western Australia and the adjacent Northern Territory. Corynotheca dichotoma (F.Muell.) F.Muell. ex Benth. is reinstated for a species growing on yellow sands in the Mid West of Western Australia. The taxonomic and geographic limits of varieties of C. micrantha (Lindl.) Druce are reconsidered and all are recognised at specific rank. Four new combinations are made: Corynotheca divaricata (R.J.F.Hend.) R.L.Barrett & T.Macfarlane, Corynotheca elongata (R.J.F.Hend.) R.L.Barrett & T.Macfarlane, Corynotheca gracilis (R.J.F.Hend.) R.L.Barrett & T.Macfarlane and Corynotheca panda (R.J.F.Hend.) R.L.Barrett & T.Macfarlane. All are illustrated and a revised key to the thirteen species of Corynotheca recognised is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dianella ensifolia (L.) Redouté 1802 is a plant known for its significant medicinal values. In this study, we presented its chloroplast genome. The length of the chloroplast genome was found to be 156,571 bp, with a GC content of 37.86%. It consisted of a large single-copy (LSC) of 85,318 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) of 18,307 bp, a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 26,473 bp each that separated the LSC and SSC regions. The chloroplast genome of D. ensifolia consisted of 114 unique genes, including 80 protein-coding genes, four rRNA genes, and 30 tRNA genes. Through phylogenetic analysis, we identified a close relationship between D. ensifolia and D. nigra . This newly sequenced chloroplast genome not only enhances our understanding of the genome of Dianella , but also provides valuable insights for the evolutionary study of the family Asphodelaceae., Competing Interests: No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s)., (© 2024 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.)

Herein, it was aimed to evaluate three different extracts of the plant Asphodelus aestivus in terms of their antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, flavonoid profile, and anticholinergic and antidiabetic activity. In addition, the phenolic content of the A. aestivus extracts was determined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry. The results obtained in the antioxidant studies were checked against butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, Trolox, and α-tocopherol antioxidants, which are reference standards. The half-maximal inhibition concentration (IC 50 ) values of A. aestivus for 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) removal activity were 245.015-285.851 and 285.818-371.563 μg/mL, respectively. Then, the reducing impact of A. aestivus extracts was evaluated by the cupric ion (Cu 2+ ), ferric ion (Fe 3+ ), and Fe 3+ -TPTZ reducing capabilities. Moreover, 0.058, 0.064, and 0.100 μg of gallic acid equivalent of phenolic and 0.500, 1.212, and 2.074 μg of quercetin equivalent of flavonoid contents were determined from 1 mg of ethanol, water, and water-ethanol extracts, respectively. For water-ethanol, ethanol, and water extracts of A. aestivus, IC 50 values of 0.062±0.0001, 0.068±0.0002, and 0.090±0.0001 μg/mL against acetylcholinesterase, respectively, were calculated. In addition, against the enzyme α-glucosidase IC 50 values of 16.376±0.2216, 18.907±0.3004, and 24.471±0.4929 μg/mL, respectively, were calculated. Extracts showed considerable biological activities thanks to the important molecules they contain., (© 2024 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

South Africa is one of the biodiversity hotspots for Aloe in Africa. This makes it important to evaluate the conservation status and threats to this genus. The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Red List was employed to evaluate these two factors. Results revealed that 44% of all species in this genus are of conservation concern with the majority of them facing threats. This study recommends that more attention such as strengthening the protection of these species and controlling the threats identified in this study should be given to species in this genus in terms of conservation management to reduce their risk of extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• National A. lettyae population estimated at ∼10,800 individuals. • Aloe lettyae plants have an aggregated distribution within populations. • Numbers of leaves per rosette best predict A. lettyae life history stages. • Most A. lettyae populations dominated by adult individuals. • Baseline A. lettyae population data provides for long-term demographic monitoring. This is the first study documenting the distribution and population biology of the Endangered Aloe lettyae , an endemic to the highly threatened Woodbush Granite Grassland (WGG) in Limpopo Province, South Africa. We documented 19 A. lettyae populations and calculated the total area of occupied habitat at 17.5 ha within its extent of occurrence of 123 km2. Most populations were clustered on the south western side of the WGG, with all known localities less than 40 km apart in this severely fragmented vegetation type. Population size varied from 10 to 6547 plants, with ∼10,800 individuals estimated in total. Plant size and life history stage demographics were determined in seven of the 19 currently known A. lettyae populations, including two large populations, as well as a high- and a low-lying population, and constituted a representative sample of the entire geographical range of the species. For plant size, four metrics (number of leaves, number of leaf layers, height and diameter of the leaf rosette) were recorded for each sampled A. lettyae plant, and the presence of an inflorescence indicated its reproductive status. By means of the classification tree technique CHAID (Chi-square Automatic Interaction Detection), we determined that of the four plant size metrics, the 'number of leaves' predicts A. lettyae 's life history stages and fecundity most accurately, and revealed significant differences in the life history stage structure of the seven surveyed populations. Five populations occurring in relatively undisturbed WGG fragments, including the two large populations, comprised high proportions of adult individuals (77–89%), while only few A. lettyae juveniles were found (3–14%). By contrast, the relatively high percentage of juveniles (25–58%) and low percentage of adults (32–63%) observed in two small populations found in a degraded WGG fragment and in non-natural habitat respectively, appeared atypical. The percentage of subadults varied little across the surveyed populations (8–13%). In slow-growing, long-lived species such as A. lettyae , the dominance of adult individuals with a high probability of survival may be considered as indicative of stable populations. This study provides baseline A. lettyae population data for long-term demographic monitoring which will aid management and conservation of the range restricted, Endangered A. lettyae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigations into arthropod-aloe associations are focused mostly on aloe pollination and on aloe pests, while little is known about other ecological aspects of these associations. During a broader ecological study on the summer-flowering grassland endemic Aloe lettyae, we documented evidence of two arachnid-aloe interactions and 13 insect taxa occurring on or in parts of A. lettyae plants (n=1084) in a representative sample of seven A. lettyae populations. Our data suggest that, of the insects observed, only honeybees play a part in A. lettyae pollination, while the other insect species were either visiting or feeding on A. lettyae reproductive plant parts. This paper presents additional records of an herbivorous insect-aloe interaction for the cerambycid beetle Nemotragus helvolus and the drosophilid fly Apenthecia cf. crassiseta, and documents the parasitoid wasp Afrostilba sp. associated with the latter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Asphodelus tenuifolius Cav. (Asphodelaceae) has traditional reputability in treatment of diarrhea and constipation but no scientific study has been reported for its gastrointestinal effects. Present study was conducted to evaluate antidiarrheal and laxative activities of the plant. Methods: Aqueous-ethanol crude extract of Asphodelus tenuifolius (At.Cr) was subjected to phytochemical screening and liquid-liquid fractionation. In vivo studies of charcoal meal intestinal transit test, antidiarrheal activity against castor oil induced diarrhea and laxative activity were performed in mice. In vitro experiments were conducted upon rabbit jejunum preparations using standard tissue bath techniques. Results: Phytochemical screening indicated presence of alkaloids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, tannins and phenols in At.Cr. In charcoal meal intestinal transit test, At.Cr increased (p < 0.001) intestinal motility at 100 mg/kg dose, but decreased (p < 0.001) it at 500 mg/kg dose, when compared to the control group. At.Cr (300–700 mg/kg) provided protection from castor oil induced diarrhea in mice, which was significant (p < 0.001) at 500 and 700 mg/kg doses, as compared to the saline treated control group. At.Cr (50 and 100 mg/kg) enhanced total and wet feces counts in normal mice, as compared to saline treated control. In jejunum preparations, At.Cr inhibited spontaneous, K+ (80 mM) and K+ (25 mM) mediated contractions, similar to verapamil. Pre-incubation of jejunum preparations with At.Cr resulted in rightward nonparallel shift in Ca+ 2 concentration response curves, similar to verapamil. The spasmolytic activity was concentrated in ethylacetate fraction. Aqueous fraction exhibited spasmogenicity upon spontaneous contractions, which was blocked in presence of verapamil, but remained unaffected by other tested antagonists. Conclusion: The Asphodelus tenuifolius crude extract possesses gut modulatory activity, which may normalize gut functions in diarrhea and constipation. The spasmolytic activity of the extract was found to be mediated through Ca+ 2 channel blocking action. The spasmogenic activity, found partitioned in aqueous fraction, possibly involves Ca+ 2 influx through voltage gated Ca+ 2 channels. The study supports ethnic uses of the plant in diarrhea and constipation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of salinity and soilless media on the vegetative growth, phytochemicals, and antioxidant capacity of Trachyandra ciliata (wild cabbage) to develop its growth protocol and explore its potential as a natural source of secondary metabolites. Treatments consisted of different concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl), control- 0 mM, 100 mM, 200 mM, 400 mM, while different in vitro assays were used for phytochemical and antioxidant screenings. Findings from the study showed that low salinity (100 mM) significantly increased chlorophyll content, plant height, leaf number, plant fresh weight, and production of inflorescence, particularly in Peat-Perlite-Vermiculite (PPV) medium. In contrast, the control was the most productive treatment in plant dry weight except for the inflorescence. The highest antioxidant activity was observed in 200 mM of NaCl treatment in combination with PPV medium, which also produced the highest mean values for polyphenols, while 100 mM was the best for flavonols. Therefore, T. ciliata proved to be more productive vegetatively under low salinity in combination with PPV soilless media. A combination of 200 mM + PPV treatment was also recommended for maximum production of antioxidants for T. ciliata.

Hemerocallis citrina (Asphodelaceae) has been wildly cultivated as ornamental and medicinal plant. Here, we reported the first chloroplast genome sequence of H. citrina. The chloroplast genome size is 156,088 bp with GC content of 37.3%, including a large single-copy (LSC) of 84,843 bp, a small single-copy (SSC) of 18,507 bp, and a pair of 26,369 bp IR(inverted repeat) regions. A total of 133 genes were annotated including 87 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that H. citrina belongs to the Hemerocallis genus in Asphodelaceae family.

Aloe vera has been used as a Chinese herb and an ingredient in many cosmetic products in China. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of A. vera was determined for more genetic data information. The chloroplast genome was 152,875 bp length as a typical quadripartite structure that contained a large single-copy region (LSC) of 83,505 bp, a small single-copy region (SSC) of 16,178 bp and a pair of inverted-repeat regions (IRs) of 26,596 bp. The overall nucleotide composition of chloroplast genome is: 47,185 bp A (30.8%), 48,123 bp T (31.5%), 29,326 bp C (19.2%), 28,241 bp G (18.5%) and the total G + C content of 37.7%. Then, 131 genes were found that included 85 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 38 transfer RNA (tRNAs) and 8 ribosome RNA (rRNAs). The phylogenetic analysis showed that A. vera closely related to A. maculata in the phylogenetic relationship of the family Asphodelaceae by the Maximum-Likelihood (ML) method.

Abstract In this study, aloe peel-derived honeycomb-like porous carbons (AP-HC) are controllably prepared by combining simple hydrothermal carbonization with chemical activation. A morphology transformation from the spherical structure (AP-SC) to the honeycomb-like structure (AP-HC) is achieved for biomass-derived carbon materials and is accompanied by an increase in the specific surface area from 13 to 1286 m2 g−1. The AP-HC as a counter electrode (CE) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) exhibits remarkable catalytic activity for I 3 - ion reduction and a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.92% that matches the Pt-based DSSC's performance (7.19%). As a working electrode in supercapacitors (SCs), a high specific capacitance of 264 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 is achieved in a three-electrode system. Additionally, a high retention rate of ∼77.45% (ranging from 0.5 to 30.0 A g−1) and superior cycling performance (91% capacitance retention after 5000 cycles) are also demonstrated. This study provides an efficient strategy for fabricating morphology-controllable porous bio-based carbon with higher specific surface area (1286 m2 g−1) that exhibits significant potential for new energy devices. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • Honeycomb-like carbon (AP-HC) is prepared by modified hydrothermal method. • Controllable morphology transformation is realized in bio-based carbon. • A high specific surface area of 1286 m2 g−1 is obtained for AP-HC. • A PCE of 6.92% is achieved in DSSCs with biomass-derived carbon catalyst. • AP-HC demonstrates excellent electrochemical performances (264 F g−1) in SCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the antibacterial effects of the leaf latex of Aloe weloensis against infectious bacterial strains. Methods. The leaf latex of A. weloensis at different concentrations (400, 500, and 600 mg/ml) was evaluated for antibacterial activities using the disc diffusion method against some Gram-negative species such as Escherichia coli (ATCC 14700) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 35619) and Gram-positive such as Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 50080) and Enterococcus fecalis (ATCC 4623). Results. The tested concentrations of the latex ranging between 400 and 600 mg·mL−1 showed significant antibacterial activity against bacterial strain. The highest dose (600 mg/ml) of A. weloensis leaf latex revealed the maximum activity (25.93 ± 0.066 inhibition zone) followed by the dose 500 mg/ml against S. aureus. The lowest antibacterial activity was observed by the concentration 400 mg/ml (5.03 ± 0.03) against E. coli. Conclusion. The results of the present investigation suggest that the leaf latex of A. weloensis can be used as potential leads to discover new drugs to control some bacterial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study aims to establish the biological and chemical profile of Asphodeline liburnica (Scop.) Rchb. root. The antioxidant, antimicrobial, enzyme inhibitory, DNA protection, apoptotic DNA ladder fragmentation analysis, and anti-proliferative of A. liburnica were established using standard assays. In silico study was also performed to understand interactions between quantified anthraquinones and key enzymes of clinical relevance. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found to be 9.67 mgGAE/g and 1.48 mgRE/g extract, respectively. Chrysophanol was detected as a major anthraquinone. The extract exhibited radical scavenging ability against DPPH and ABTS with values of 13.23 and 66.99 mgTE/g extract, respectively. Good inhibitory activity against tyrosinase was recorded. In silico experiments showed that the anthraquinones were able to establish coordinative bonds with the copper atoms present in the enzymatic cavity of tyrosinase. MTT cell viability test on MDA-MB-231 cells showed that at 0.1 and 1 μg of extracts induced anti-proliferative effect. Apoptotic DNA fragmentation analysis indicated nuclear condensation resulting in DNA fragmentation, which exhibited apoptotic cell death in the presence of A. liburnica. This study has provided insights on the potential usage of A. liburnica which could open new avenues for research and stimulate future interest for the development of safe novel biopharmaceuticals. Highlights • Medicinal and toxicological properties of Asphodeline liburnica were studied. • The extract showed potent radical scavenging ability and inhibited tyrosinase significantly. • Chrysophanol established coordinative bonds with Cu in the enzymatic cavity of tyrosinase in silico. • MTT cell viability test on MDA-MB-231 cells showed anti-proliferative effect of the extract. • A. liburnica is a potent source of bioactive compounds for designing novel functional products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new dihydroisocoumarin glucoside, vacillanoside (3), and two new anthrone C-glycosides microdantin derivatives; vacillantin A (10) and B (11), together with nine known compounds belonging to the anthraquinone, anthrone and isocoumarin groups were isolated from the leaves of Aloe vacillans. The structures were determined based on spectroscopic evidence including 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and high resolution mass spectrometry (HRESIMS) data, along with comparisons to reported data. The leaves were used to extract compounds with different solvents. The extracts were tested for antioxidant activity with a variety of in vitro tests including 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate (ABTS•+), ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP), superoxide, and nitric oxide radical scavenging assays. The dichloromethane fraction was most active, displaying significant free radical scavenging activity. The n-butanol fraction also showed notable activity in all assays. Therefore, these findings support the potential use of A. vacillans leaves as an antioxidant medication due to the presence of polyphenolic compounds.