Abstract:
The problem. The purpose of the present investigation was to isolate and identify the anthocyanin in the leaves of Oxalis ortgiessi. Procedure. The leaves were extracted in 1% HCl in methanol for 24 hours. This extract was concentrated in vacuo and then streaked on 3 mm Whatman chromatography paper. The chromatogram was developed by ascending chromatography in 1% HCl. After separation the band was cut out and eluted in 0.01% HCl in methanol. These solutions were reduced in volume under vacuum and absorption spectrum determined. The purified elute was spotted on Whatman No. 1 and the Rf values of the pigment determined in four different solvent systems. Acid and alkaline hydrolysis was carried out to identify the aglycone, glycosides and organic acid. Findings. The anthocyanin of the leaves of Oxalis ortgiessi was identified as malvidin-3-rhamnoglucoside-5-glucoside from the Rf values, spectral maxima and color observations. Conclusion. The anthocyanin of the leaves of Oxalis ortgiessi probably could not be used to aid in taxonomic work because the species is an ornamental plant developed for the color of the leaves. Recommendations. Further studies of the flower pigments of Oxalis ortgiessi is needed to see if there are any relationships between leaf and flower pigments. Isloation and identification of pigments in other species in the Oxalidaceae family needs to be done to aid in taxonomic study of this group to show relationships.
