Isolated by chromatographic analysis from Rauwolfia caffra Sonder, the alkaloid
is best purified by recrystallization from CH2Cl2 when it yields clusters of
colourless rods. The ultraviolet spectrum in EtOH has absorption maxima at
220, 227 and 265 mJ.1. An acetoxy group, a methyl group and a hydroxymethyl
group are present in the molecule.