Sambunigrin and cyanogenic variability in populations of Sambucus canadensis L. (Caprifoliaceae)

The presence or absence of cyanogenic glycosides was determined for individ uals from nine populations of Sambucus canadensis L. (elderberry) of east-c entral Illinois. In most of the populations tested, all or most of the indi viduals did not. produce these compounds, in one, all were cyanogenic, wher eas in another population this trait was highly variable. Addition of the e nzyme emulsin to negative tests did not result in any further release of cy anide. The glycoside responsible is(S)-sambunigrin. (C) 2000 Elsevier Scien ce Ltd. All rights reserved.