This base was first prepared synthetically by Partheil and subsequently discovered
in the roots of Caulophyllurn thalictroides L. It is widespread among the Papilionaceae, being found in Baptisia australis, Genista tinctoria, Sophora
microphylla, S. tetraptera, Thermopsis lanceolata and T. rhombifolia (Watt.)
Richards. It is laevorotatory with [α]20D - 221 ° (H20) and furnishes the following
crystalline salts and derivatives: hydrochloride, m.p. 2S0-SoC (dec.); hydriodide,
m.p. 246-7°C (dec.); perchlorate, m.p. 2S4°C (dec.); aurichloride, m.p.
206°C (dec.); picrate, m.p. 230°C; picrolonate, m.p. 224-SoC (dec.) and the
methiodide which occurs in two modifications, m.p. 248°C and 267-276°C.