Request for identification, from Binsar Uttarakhand

[Pallavi Singh]

Attaching pictures of a plant seen in the pine savannah landscape of Binsar, Uttarakhand, at about 2000 mts. It was about two feet tall. At first I thought the inflorescence was shiny with dew, but upon touching left an odourless oily substance on my hand. Leaves looked like they were trifoliate. I would be very greatful for any help towards its identification. 

Regards,

Pallavi 

[Nidhan Singh]

Looks to be a Uraria sp.

Regards,

Dr. Nidhan Singh

Associate Professor
Department of Botany
I.B. (PG) College
Panipat-132103 Haryana
Ph.: 09416371227

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[Saroj Kasaju]

Uraria lagopodioides (L.) DC. ??

Thank you.

Saroj Kasaju

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[Pallavi Singh]

Dear Saroj ji,

It is most likely Uraria lagopodioides, thank you for the identification. 🙏🏽🙏🏽

I wonder what the sticky oily substance was on the inflorescence. It was shining like dew in the sunlight. I will read more about it. 

Thank you. 

[Saroj Kasaju]

OK Pallavi Ji.

Thank you.

Saroj Kasaju

[J.M. Garg]

The following is what AI view on Google search says 

"The "oily substance" observed on the inflorescence of Uraria lagopodioides is likely an essential oil or part of the plant's resinous exudate, primarily composed of a variety of compounds including flavonoids and glycosides, along with other potential essential oil components like terpenoids. 

While specific studies on the exact composition of the oily exudate on the inflorescence are limited, research on the aerial parts of the plant (Uraria lagopoides) has identified several new phytoconstituents, which may contribute to this substance:

• Flavonoids and Glycosides: These are major chemical groups found in the plant's extracts and are often associated with the plant's biological activities.
• Waxy/Oily compounds: Specific long-chain organic compounds such as 7'-carboxylic-n-heptacosanyl-glutarate, n-nonacosan-6-ol-1,13-dioic acid, and 2-hydroxytricontane have been isolated from the aerial parts. These waxy or long-chain alcohol and acid derivatives contribute to the physical properties of the plant's surface, which could be perceived as an "oily substance."
• Essential Oil Components: Though not always explicitly called "oily substance," many plants in the Fabaceae family and other aromatic plants produce essential oils in their inflorescences, containing volatile compounds like monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, which can have insecticidal and other protective functions. 

The potential function of this substance is likely related to the plant's defense mechanisms against insects and pests, and possibly to reduce water loss (acting as a protective waxy layer) or attract specific pollinators. The plant is known for having significant anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and insecticidal properties, which are attributed to its various chemical constituents. "

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With regards,
J.M.Garg, 
https://efloraofindia.com/