A novel benzofuran derivative was isolated from exudates released by r
oots of iron-deficient Medicago sativa, together with coumestrol, form
ononetin and 7,4'-dihydroxyflavone. The structure of the novel compoun
d was shown to be 2-methoxyphenyl)-6-methoxy-3-benzofuran-carboxylic a
cid methyl ester by chemical and spectroscopic methods.