Salsola subaphylla contains this alkaloid which is extremely hygroscopic and for
which no definite melting point has been obtained. It gives crystalline salts and
derivatives, e.g. the hydrochloride, melting over a very wide range of temperature;
the hydriodide which behaves similarly to the hydrochloride, picrate, m.p.
218.5°C. On hydrogenation over Pt02 it yields the dihydro derivative giving a
hydrochloride, m.p. 139-140oC and a picrate, m.p. 174.6-175°C. When boiled
with 30 per cent KOH it forms putrescine and ferulic acid and has the probable
structure given above.
