Semiliquidambar cathayensis Chang is an extremely valuable and endangered medicinal plant. To investigate the exploitation and rational utilization of S. cathayensis, this study conducted metabolomics analysis of the leaves and bark of artificially cultivated S. cathayensis at different developmental stages.

Thus, this study established a solid theoretical framework for the rational, effective, and sustainable utilization of S. cathayensis leaves and bark.

These metabolites were detected and identified by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) technology, and then univariate statistical analyses, multivariate pattern analyses, and pathway analyses were carried out.

As a result, a total of 801 metabolites were detected in S. cathayensis; differential metabolites in leaves at different developmental stages were mainly enriched in pathways related to flavonoids, whereas differential metabolites in bark at different developmental stages were mainly aromatic compounds, amino acids, and flavonoids, among others. This study revealed that young leaves are ideal for use in treating rheumatism, regulating blood pressure, and lowering blood glucose, while old leaves are better suited for skincare products and extracting materials to prevent neurodegenerative diseases and support women's ovarian health. As for bark, four-year-old S. cathayensis bark is optimal for extracting myricetin. If the pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and industrial fields require extensive extraction of L-phenylalanine, trans-3-hydroxycinnamate, and 4-hydroxyphenylacetate, and if the medical field needs to extract anti-allergy, liver protection, and anti-coagulant ingredients, the two-year-old S. cathayensis bark is the best choice. Conclusions: Thus, this study established a solid theoretical framework for the rational, effective, and sustainable utilization of S. cathayensis leaves and bark.