Abstract

KITE, Geoffrey C.  and  SALAZAR, Gerardo A.. Chemical composition of the inflorescence odor of Malaxis rzedowskiana (Orchidaceae). Rev. Mex. Biodiv. [online]. 2008, vol.79, n.1, pp.153-157. ISSN 2007-8706.

Malaxis rzedowskiana R.González (Malaxideae, Orchidaceae) from Mexico produces a pleasant floral odor reminiscent of violets in contrast to the unpleasant odors noted for several other members of Malaxideae. Analysis of the floral odor of M. rzedowskiana by headspace trapping and thermal desorption-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed the presence of kaurene (76%), (E)-β-ionone (18%) and (E)-α-ionone (4%) as the main components. This is the first report of a floral odor containing a high proportion of kaurene.

Keywords : floral fragrance; gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; β-ionone; kaurene; Malaxis; Orchidaceae.

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