The chemotaxonomic value of two cinnamoyl chromones, aloeresin E and F, inAloe (Aloaceae)

A chemotaxonomic study of the genus Aloe indicates a remarkable quantitativ e and qualitative similarity in leaf exudate composition between 12 species . The diagnostic leaf exudate profile found in all representatives of this group - a combination of homonataloin A and B with either or both of two re cently described cinnamoyl chromones, aloeresin E and F, together with vari ous coumaroyl chromones - may serve as a "fingerprint". Taxonomic assessmen t and cladistic analysis of both morphological and chemical data support th e transfer of A. pearsonii, previously misplaced in A. ser. Macrifoliae, to A. ser. Mitriformes, and are consistent with the broadening of the circums cription of the latter to include 5 anomalous species: A. angelica, A. yave llana, A. peglerae, A. melanacantha, and A. erinacea.