Combretum afrum

Combretum afrum
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Myrtales
Family: Combretaceae
Genus: Combretum
Species:
C. afrum
Binomial name
Combretum afrum
Synonyms[2]
  • Dodonaea afra Eckl. & Zeyh.
  • Combretum salicifolium E.Mey. ex Hook.
  • Dodonaea conglomerata Eckl. & Zeyh.
  • Dodonaea dubia Eckl. & Zeyh.
  • Combretum caffrum

Combretum afrum,[3] commonly known as Cape bushwillow, is a species of tree native to South Africa. It is endemic to the Cape Provinces.[2]

Biochemistry

[edit]
Combretastatin A-4

In C. afrum, combretastatins A-1, A-4 and B-1 can be found.[4]

Taxonomy

[edit]

The etymology of the original species name caffrum is related to kaffir, an ethnic slur used towards black people in Africa. At the July 2024 International Botanical Congress, a vote was held with the result that "caffrum" related names will be emended to afrum related ones, with the implementation of this happening by the end of July 2024.[5]

References

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  • Mike Thompson (6 September 2005). "Combrestatin – Molecule of the month". Bristol University Chemistry Dept Home Page. Bristol University. Retrieved 20 September 2006.
  • Pettit GR, Cragg GM, Singh SB (May–June 1987). "Antineoplastic agents, 122. Constituents of Combretum caffrum". Journal of Natural Products. 50 (3): 386–391. doi:10.1021/np50051a008. PMID 3668557.