Combretum molle R.Br. ex G.Don

Taxonomy and Common Name

Combretum molle, commonly known as the velvet bushwillow, is a medium to large tree species belonging to the genus Combretum.

Geographic Distribution

It occurs in western, eastern, and southern Africa.

Known Herbivores

The larvae of two insect species, Parosmodes morantii and Acalyptris molleivora, feed on this tree.

Antioxidant Compounds

C. molle is recorded to contain antioxidant compounds including punicalagin.

Punicalagin Occurrence

Punicalagin is also found in pomegranates (Punica granatum), which are a somewhat related plant in the order Myrtales.

Saponin Content

This tree also contains two 1alpha-hydroxycycloartenoid saponins: mollic acid glucoside and mollic acid 3β-D-xyloside.

Bark Extract Activities

Extracts taken from the bark of C. molle show antibacterial, antifungal, and in vitro antiprotozoal activities.

Physiological Effects of Isolated Compounds

Mollic acid glucoside isolated from this species produces cardiovascular effects.