Flavonoid distribution of Mulinum (Apiaceae, Hydrocotyloideae, Mulineae)

Flavonoid chemistry of the genus Mulinum and selected Mulineae taxa was stu died. Both flavones and flavonols were identified as C- and O-glycosides. A ll Mulinum species contain 6,8-di-C-glycosyl chrysoeriol (flavone) and, wit h the exception of one, quercetin (flavonol). The presence of both flavones and flavonols in this genus weakens previous generalizations that the Muli neae contain only flavonols and are primitive compared to other Apiaceae tr ibes. Based on the selected taxa studied, Azorella appears to differ from b oth Mulinum and Gymnophyton in producing more kinds of flavonols, and Gymno phyton appears similar to Mulinum in the production of both chrysoeriol and quercetin as well as relatively few compounds. The flavonoid profile of As teriscium glaucum is reported as well. In general, a more homogeneous flavo noid compound composition for the Apiaceae is suggested.