Integrative morpho-anatomical and phytochemical characterization of Alocasia longiloba for sustainable pharmaceutical and environmental applications

Alocasia longiloba Miq. (Araceae) is a Southeast Asian understory plant with limited anatomical and phytochemical studies. This work provides the first integrative characterization of its root, rhizome, petiole and lamina. Anatomical examination revealed a polyarch stele in roots, abundant calcium oxalate crystals in the rhizome and irregularly distributed vascular bundles in leaf tissues. Qualitative phytochemical screening of ethanolic extracts confirmed the presence of triterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, saponins, steroids and coumarins. Quantitative analysis showed higher total triterpenoid and polyphenol contents in the roots, while flavonoid content was greater in the rhizome. These findings offer foundational anatomical and chemical data, contributing to future taxonomic, ecological and pharmacognostic studies of A. longiloba. The species’ metabolite-rich tissues highlight its potential as a sustainable resource for natural product development and support ongoing biodiversity and health-related research efforts.