Botanical Nerd Word: Aphyllous
Aphyllous: Without leaves.* This Pencil Cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli) does not produce leaves. It photosynthesises with its bare stems. *Harris, J.G., Harris, M.W. (2001). Plant identification…
Category Archives: Word of the Week
Botanical Nerd Word: Decussate
Decussate: Arranged along the stem in pairs, with each pair at right angles to the pair above or below.* This Plectranthus shows a decussate leaf…
Botanical Nerd Word: Phytotelma
Phytotelma (plural: phytotelmata): A small, water-filled cavity in a tree or any similar environment, such as the axil of a bromeliad.* In nature, phytotelmata form important niche habitats for other…
Botanical Nerd Word: Autochore
Autochore: A plant that is the major agent in the distribution of its own seeds or spores (as by special ejecting organs).* Jewelweeds (Impatiens pallida…
Botanical Nerd Word: Entomophily
Entomophily: The transfer of pollen by insects.* These salvias are a favourite of pollinating bees. Pollock, M., Griffiths, M. (2005). Illustrated dictionary of gardening. London:…
Botanical Nerd Word: Pyxis
Pyxis: A circumscissile capsule, the top coming off as a lid.* Above is an image of a ripe Portulaca pyxis. Circumscissile means that the capsule…
Botanical Nerd Word: Pseudanthium
Pseudanthium: A compact inflorescence of many small flowers which simulates a single flower.* While sunflowers look like one massive flower at the top of the…
Botanical Nerd Word: Pappus
Pappus: A modified calyx made up of a ring of fine hairs, scales, or teeth that persist after fertilization and aid the wind dispersal of…
Botanical Nerd Word: Gall
Gall: An abnormal growth or swelling in a plant. The formation of a gall may be induced by infection of the plant with bacteria or…
Botanical Nerd Word: Cupule
Cupule: A cup-like sheath surrounding or enclosing certain fruits, e.g. the acorn of Quercus (Oaks).* The acorns on this English oak (Quercus robur) are maturing….