Dictionary of the names of British plants : intended for the use of amateurs and beginners, as a help to the knowledge of the meaning and pronunciation of the scientific names of British wild flowers

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DICTIOKAEY

OF THE NAMES OP

BRITISH PLANTS.

DICTIONARY

OF THE NAMES OF

B II I T I s II Plan t s .

INTENDED FOR THE USE OP AMATEURS AND BEGINNERS,
AS A HELP TO THE KNOWLEDGE OP THE MEANING
AND PRONUNCIATION OP THE SCIENTIFIC NAMES OF
BRITISH MHLD FLOWERS.

BY

HENRY PUREFOY FITZGERALD

LONDON :

BAILLIERE, TINDALL & COX,

20, KING WILLIAM STREET, STRAND.

PREFACE.

In sending forth this little volume, I feel sure that the
public will not too harshly criticise its contents. Some
time ago, when I first began, by myself, the study of
Botany, I experienced a great want in the absence of a
book dealing with the names of flowers. To prevent this
want being felt by others in like positions is the main
object of this work. It is intended chiefly for amateurs
and beginners, and to them the Author trusts that the
hook will be an assistance. The names, both generic and
specific, of every British plant are included ; they are
broken up, so as to show the accurate pronunciations,
and then their derivations and meanings are inserted ;
also, in the cases of specific names, an example of a plant
so called is placed in brackets.

The Author has done his best to trace the derivations
of the names ; in some few cases, however, the etymologies
have been entirely lost.

I here take the opportunity of thanking the Rev.
Hilderic Friend (author of ‘ Flowers and Flower Lore,’
etc.), for his kindness in looking over the MS. before it
was sent to the press, and in offering some suggestions
thereupon ; also Dr. Armand Semple (author of ‘ Aids to
Botany ’), who has kindly assisted me in revising the
proofs.

HENRY PUREFOY FITZGERALD.

North Hall,

Preston Candover,

Basingstoke.

•S

ADDENDA.

Many of the following names will be seen to end in aides,
and to avoid repetition it may be as well to state here
that it is from the Greek ‘ eidos (eiSog),' meaning a re-
semblance.

To make the pronunciation simpler, I have added a few
general rules : —

1. Pronounce the diphthongs ce, ce, like the English long
e, as in meek.

2. Pronounce ch like Ic.

3. The c in see, sci, is soft.

4. Always sound e at the end of a word.

5. Before e, i, ce, os, the letters c, g, are soft ; before
other letters hard.

6. In Greek compounds the letter g is always hard.

DICTIONARY

OF THE NAMES OF

BEITISPI PLANTS.

A.

Absinthium (ah-sm-tlieum). absinthum ; figurative

or bitter. Gr., apsintliiou {d\plv9iou= -worm-wood). [Aete-

Acanthium (a-can.i7tem).-Lat., acanthus, the name of a
lorny Egyptian plant. Onoperclon acanthkm is probably
named after it on account of Jhe prickles on the leaves.

caulis (aLcaM7-is).— Gr., a, without; laidos, a stalk
(a-zcauXot;) ; stemless. [Carduus.]

Acer (a-SMr).-Either from the Celtic «c, a point (if this
13 the derivation of the word, the name is derived from the
hardness of the wood, which the ancients used for spears and
sharp.pointed instruments), or else from the Lat. acer, acrid^
referring to the juice of some of the species
Aceras (a-a«r-r«a) -Gr., a, without, not ; W, a horn

TeSa r "''“f f."' possesses no spur.

(as sur -bah).— Lat, acerhus, bitter, sour. TPyeus

MALus, var. Acerha.] IJ^yeus

Acetosa (aa-ace-<oe-sa/t).-Lat., acetum, sour, tasting like
negar, referring to the sharp taste of the sap. [Rumex 1

1

G

Acicularis {a-kic-hu-ldr-ris.) — Lat., act«, a needle: needle-
shaped. [SCIRPDS.]

Aconitum (ac-kO-ni-tura). — Gr., alMniton (ukovitov), a
ranunculaceous plant, greatly used in medical practice, and
very poisonous,

Acorus {a-cSr-us). — Gr., a-kore {a-Kopt}) ; denoting that
the plant has the power of curing diseases of the pupil of the
eye.

Acorifolius (ac-cor-re-fo-leris). — Acorus, and Lat. folium,
a leaf ; having leaves like that of the Acorus.

Acre (a-cree). — Lat. neuter of accr, bitter; from the
acrid propensities of the plants bearing this name. [Rascx-
CULUS.]

Acris See Acre.

Actinocarpus (ak-tin-o-car-pus). — Gr., aktis, gen. aklinos,
a ray; karpos, a fruit (olktiq, ivoq; Kapirog). The carpels of
the plant bearing this name radiate in a star-like manner.

Actsea (ak-tee-ah).—Rev. C. A. Johns, in Flowers of the
Field, says : ‘From acte (d/cr*;), the elder; from the similarity
of the leaves of the two plants.’ But whether he refers to the
cotyledons or the true leaves is doubtful.

Aculeatus {a-ku-lee-a-tus). — Lat., aculeaius, furnished
with prickles, prickly. The leaves of Ruscus aculeaius are
very rigid, and terminate in sharp spikes.

Acuminata {a-cume-in-a-tah). — Lat., acumtno, I sharpen ;
tapering to a point, from the pointed apices of the leaves,
[Salix acuminata.]

Acutus (a-cu-tus). — Lat., acutus, sharp. Juncus acutus has
very rigid and pointed leaves.

Acutiflorus {a-cu-te-for-us). — Lat., acutus, sharp ; flos,flori$,
a flower. The perianth segments of Juncus acutijiorus are
very pointed,

Acutifolium (a-cti-iee-/o-?e!<m). — Lat., acutus, sharp ; foliufn,
a leaf : pointed-leaved. [Hiebacium angliccm, var. Acuti-
folium.

Adiantum (ad-dy an-fum). — Gr., adiantos (aSiarroc), dry,
unmoisteued. The plants bearing this name have the pro-
perty of I'opelling water.

7

Adoxa (a-dox-ah), — Gr., adoxa (ddo^a), without glory, in-
conspicuous ; so called from the obscure flower-heads.

.Sgopodium {e-go-po-de-um). — Gr. , aix (ai^, a’iyog), a goat ;
pous (novg), a foot : goat-footed,, The plants are so named
from the leaves bearing a fanciful resemblance to a goat’s
foot.

.ffimulum {e-meio-lum). — Lat., cemidus, a rival.

.ffistivalis (e-sty-vay-lis). — Lat., oistivus, summer : flowering
in the summer. [Spiranthes ^stivalis.]

.ffithusa (e-theio-sah), — Gr., ailho (alOio), I burn. The so-
called plants bear acrid and burning juices.

Affinis {af-fy-nis), — Lat., ajjinis, connected with. This
name is given to a Eubus which is closely allied to another
variety.

Aggregatum (ag-gree-gay-ium). — La,t., aggrego, I flock
together, collect. In Hieracium aggregatum the flower-heads
are closely packed together.

Agrestis (a-gress-tis), — Lat., agrestis, pertaining to a fleld.
[Veronica agrestls.]

Agrestinum.— See Agrestis.

^ Apimonia (a-gre-mow-ne-ali). — See Skeat’s Dictionary :
^PyoQi shining ; hence argemone {apyeydovy), egremoine.

Agrestis {a-gros-tis). — Gr., agros (dypog), a field : growing
in fields.

Aira (ire-rah).—G:r., airo {atpo), I destroy ; this name was
formerly applied to Darnel

Aizoides (j-2oi-dees).—Oides in all words = like ; resemblin»
aiz. [Saxifragra aizoides.] °

Ajacis (a-jdy-s/s).— Dedieated to Ajax. [Delphinium.]

Ajuga (d-jew-gah). Gr., azugon (d-!^vyov), unyoked, not in
pairs ; from the solitary flowers.

Alba. — See Albiis.

Albus (al-buss). — Lat., albus, white.

Albescens {al-bess-scens).—Lat., albesco, I become white.
Ihis term is applied to flowers of a whitish colour.

Alchemilla (al-kem-mil-lah).~Thia word is derived from
alchemy, m which art' this flower was supposed to have had
great power.

1-2

8

Alisma {a-Us-mah). — Derived from the Celtic alin, water.

Alliaria {alley-area). — Lat., allium, garlie, onion ; bo called
because the plant when bruised has very much the same smell
as garlic. [Sin apis alliaria.]

Allium {al-U-um). — The Latin name for garlic.

Alnus {al-nuss). — The Latin name for a tree. Cf. Skeat’s
Dictionary.

Aloides {a-loi-dees). — Celtic, alls, water. [Ste.a.tiote.s
ALOIDES.]

Alopecuroides {a-lo-pe-cu-roides). — Alopecuru8-Y\]s.e (aides =
like), a plant which in some points resembles the Alopecurus,
Foxtail.

Alpestre (al-xjes-tree). — Pertaining to alpine places.

Alpicola (al-pih-ko-lah). — Lat., alpicus, pertaining to hills.
[Caeex certa, var. Alpicola.]

Alpinum (al-pie-mtm). — Lat., alpinus, belonging to hilly
districts. [Thalictrum alpinum.]

Alsinoides (al-si-noi-dees). — .4fei;!e-like (oitZes = like), re-
sembling Alsine. Cf. Aizoides.

Alterniflora (al-tcr-ne- flora). — Lat., afiernus, alternate ;/o9,
floris, a flower : alternate-leaved. [Caeex alterniflora.]

Alternifolium {al-ter-ne-fo-leum).—ljdA., alterms, alternate ;
folium, a leaf : alternate-leaved. [Crrysoplenium.]

Althosa (al-tea-ah). — Gi’., altlio (d\0a>), I cure ; from the
supposed healing qualities of the plant.

Althoeifolium (al-tea-e-fo-leum).— Althaea ; Lat., folium, a
leaf. The leaves of this plant were thought to have medicinal
properties.

Alyssum (a-lis-sum). — Gr., alusson {dXvcrao}’), to un-madden,
to cure madness.

Amara (am-aii'-rah). — Lat., a7nariLS, bitter, (amara, femi-
nine). [Cardamine.]

Ambigua (ai7i.-M-gu-ah,). — Lat., ambiguus, changeable, un-
certain. [Stachys.]

Amoena (d-jnee-nak). — Lat., amcenus, pleasant.

Amomum (am-o-mtnn). — Lat., amointmi, the name of a plant
with an aromatic scent. Sison ajnomum is sarcastically
named, as it has a very nauseous smell.

9

Ampeloprasum (cim-pe^fe-25?’ay-s«m). — Gr., ompe?os («^7re\of ),

a vine ; prason (Trpdirov), a leek : vine-leek. [Allium.]

Amphibium (am-phib-eum). — Growing either on land or in
water ; amphibious. The Polygonum amphibium grows in
either place.

Amplexicaule {am-plex-e-cor-lee). — Lat., amplexus, clasping;
cauUs, a stem : embracing the stem. [Hikracium angli-
CUM, var. Amplexicaule.^

Amplicatus (am-ple-ca-lus). — Lat., amplico, I enlarge; large.

Ampullacea {am-pewl-layse-ah).—Lat, ampullaceus, per-
tabling to a bottle. This name derives its origin from the
inflated fruits, which are abruptly contracted into a long
beak, giving a bottle-like appearance. This plant is Carex
ampullacea ; but the same term is also applied to a small bag
or pouch attached to roots and leaves of aquatic plants,
rendering them buoyant.

Amygdaloides [a-mig-da-loi-dees). — Gr., amugdale {dpvyddXt]),
an almond ; oides, like ; almond-like. [Euphorbia amygda-
loides.]

Anagallis (d-na-gal-lis). — Gr., anagelao (dvayeXdta), I laugh.
The plants which bear this name are said to denote pleasure
and fun.

Anagallidifolium {d-nd-gal-Ud-e-fo-leum). — Lat., anagallis;
folium, a leaf : resembling the leaf of Anagallis.

Anchusa (an-q-sah), — Gr., anchousa (dv^ovaa), paint. A
dye is extracted from the roots of -these plants.

Andersoaiana. Named after a Mr. Anderson, a botanist,
[Salix NiGRiCAN.s, var. Andersoniana.l

Andrewsu. — Named after a Mr. Andrews. [Trichomanes
RADiCANS, var. Andrewsii.^

Androsaemum {an-drbs-see-mim).—G:v., andros {avdpoQ), of
man ; aima (nipa), blood ; from the red-coloured sap, formerly
called elf-blood, later the blood of John the Baptist ; St. John’s
Wort. [Hypericum.]

Andromeda (an-drom-e-dah). — ‘This flower is named after
Andromeda, the daughter of Cepheus, king of Ethiopia, who
was chained to a rock and exposed to the attacks of a sea-
monster; this plant likewise grows in very dreary and

10

northern places, feigned to be the abode of pretematnral
monsters.’ — Sir W. J. Hooker.

Anemone {a-nem-o-nee). — Gr., anemos {dvenog), the wind;
from the exposed places of growth.

‘ Anemone that never uncloses
Its flowers, until breathed on by the wind.

Angelica {an-jel-lik-ah).—Calle6. Angelic from its medicinal
properties.

Angulare {an-gu-lar-re). — Lat., angulare, to make angular.
This is the neutral form of adjective.

Angustifolium [an-gus-te-fo-lcum). — Lat., angustua, narrow ;
folium, a leaf : narrow-leaved. [Epilobium.]

Annotinum (an-no-iy-num). — Lat., annoiinus, that which is
one year old.

Annuls {an-new-is). — Lat., anmius, lasting one year ; annual.
[SCLERANTHUS AKNUIS.]

Anserina (an-sir-ry-nah). — Lat., anser, a goose. The roots
of this plant, Potentilla anserina, were in days gone by used
as food for geese,

Anthemis (an-thee-mis). — Gr., anthos (avBog), a flower. In
the olden days the blossoms of this plant were used for
medicine, which was considered to be one of the most im-
portant and most valuable.

Anthriscus {an-tJiris-cus), — The Greek name for this or some
allied species. [Torilis anthriscus.]

Anthropophora (u7i - throw - pS ■ phorah). — Gr., aiUhropos
(dr9po)Trog),maTi ; phora {(popa), bearing: man-bearing orchis.
[Aceras.]

Anthoxanthus {an-thox-an-thua). — Gr., anthos {dvQog), a
flower ; xanthos l^dvQog). Some species bear yellow flowers.

Anthyllis {an-thil-lis),—Gv., anthos (dvOog), a flower ; ioulos
(iovXog), down, hair ; from the hispid calyx.

Anthyrium (an-thi-reum).—Gr., anthuros {dvBvpog), opened ;
alluding to the turning back of the indusium.

Antirrhinum {ante-ry-num). — Gr., anii (dvri), opposite ;
rhinos [pivog), of a nose ; from the mask-like appearance of
the flower, and also of the fruit when quite ripe.

11

Aparine {ap-pair-nje-nee). — E bymology unknown. [Galium.]

Apennina(a^-e«-n2/-na/t). — TheApennine flower. [Anemone

APENNINA. ]

Apetale {a-petal-ee). — Gr., a (ci), without ; petalon (ntraXov),
a petal : having no petals. [Sagina apetale.]

Aphaca (aph-j^ha-kah). — Gr., apo (diro, in compos, ap), dis-
tant from ; akos (uKoq), a cure ; implying that this plant is of
no use in medicine. [Lathykus.]

Aphyllum(a-p/a7-f!(9?i). — Gr., a (d), without ; phullon{fvWov),
a leaf : leafless. [Epigogum aphyllum.]

Apiculata (a-pik-q-lay-tah). — Diminutive of Lat. apex, a
point ; ending with a little point. [Medicago denticulata,
var. Apiculata.^

Apifera {a-pl-f^-ra). — Lat., apis, a bee ; /era, bearing : bee-
bearing orchis. Cf. Anthropophora.

Apium (a-pe-um). — The Latin name for this genus. Horace
and Virgil both mention it in their writings.

Apocynaceae {apo-cy-nac-ece). — Gr., apo {d-n-o), {Kvpog), a dog :
dog’s-bane.

Aquatica (a-quat-e-kah). — Lat., aquaticus, found in or by
water. [Subularia aquatica.]

Aquatilis (a-qiait-e-lis). — Lat., aquatilis, found in or near
water.

Aquifolium {a-que-fo-leum).—La.t., acus, a needle ; folium,
a leaf : needle-leaved. [Ilex aquifolium.]

Aquillina {aquel-ly-nah).—LsA,., aquila, an eagle. A trans-
verse section of the stipes of Pteris aquillina being made, the
ends of the vascular bundles are seen arranged in a figure,
which is thought by some to resemble the imperial eagle.

Arabis (ar -ray bis). —So called from its being originally an
Arabian genus.

Arachnites (ar-rak-ny-lees). — Gr., arachne {dpdj^vy), a spider.
[Ophrys arachnites.]

Aranifera (ar-ray ne-/er-ra).— Lat., aranea, a spider ; fera,
bearing : spider-bearing Ophrys.

Arborea {ar-bor-rSah) — Lat., arbor, a tree. Lavatera
arborea resembles a small tree, growing to a height of ten or
twelve feet.

12

Arbuseula {ar-bus-ku-lah). — Lat. diminutive of arhoi, a
small tree.

Arbutifolia (ar-6w-<e;/b?ia). — Lat., urbutus ; folium, a leaf:
having a leaf like that of the Arbutus. [Salix aebcttfolia.)

Arbutus {ar-bU-tus). — The Latin for strawberry, the fruit of
which resembles that of the Arbutus.

Arcuata (ar-Icu-d-tah). — Lat., arcuatus, arched, curved. This
name is derived from the curved stems. [Luzula aeccata.]

Arctium {arc-te-um). — Gr., arktos (apKrog), a bear ; from the
rough and shaggy appearance of the flower-heads.

Argemoue (ah-g'i-mS-nee). — Lat., argefna, a white spot in the
eye ; for which disease these plants were considered a cure.

Argentea [ar-jen-te-ah). — Lat., argenteus, silvery. The leaves
of Potentilla argentea are remarkable for being covered with
a white mealy down on the undersides.

Arenaria {ar-ree-nare-rea).—Lai., arena, sand; from the
sandy places of growth. [English sandwokt.]

Arenastrium. — See Arenaria.

Arhiza (a-rhi-za). — Gr., a (a), without ; rhiza pi^a a root :
rootless. [Lemna (Wolfia) aehiza.]

Aristolochia {a-riste-loc-ke-ah). — Gr., aristos (dparrog), best ;
locJieia (Xoj^Eta), child-birth. This word denotes the supposed
medicinal virtue of the plant.

Aristatum {aris-td-tum).—La,t., arista, the beard of com, an
awn. The bracts of Beupleurum aristatum look like awns,
being much longer than the flowers.

Armeria {ar-meer-re-ah). — From the French armoires,
armorial bearing.

Armoracia (ar-mor-ray-gea). — So called from Armorica
(Bi’ittany), where this flower is very abundant.

Arnoseris {ar-no-seer-ris). — Etjmology doubtful.

Artemisia {ar-te-me-sia). — Named after Artemis, the Diana
of the Greeks.

Articulata (ar-tik-u-lay-tah). — Lat., articulare, to joint.

‘The leaves of Juncus articulata sheathe the stem below,
and are cylindrical upwards and hollow, but divided inside by
cross partitions of pith, which give them a jointed appear-
anc e. Bentham.

13

Arctostapliylos (arc-toe- slajjliil-los). — Gr., arlctos (apKrog), a
bear ; staphule ((rra0y\»j), a bunch of grapes. English name,
Bearberry.

Arum (air-rum). — The Greek name for the plant, which
comes from the Heb. aur, meaning fire ; from the hot, acrid
taste of the plants.

Arundinaceae (air-nm-dl-na-cew). Lat., arundineus, abound-
ing in reeds ; reed-like.

Arvatica (ar-vat-e-kah). — Jja,t.,arvum, a ploughed field; that
relates to, or grows in, a plough-field. Cf. Agrestis.

Arveusis (ar-ven-sis). — Lar., arvum. See Arvatica.

Asarum (a-sair-rum). — Gr., a (d), without, not; seira (celpa),
a wreath. The ancients excluded this from their garlands.

Ascendens (as-cen-dens). — Lat., ascendo, I ascend. The
name of an upright variety of Salix repens.

Asparagus (as-para-gus). — The Greek name for the plant.

Aspera (as-perah). — Lat., asper, I’ough. [Centaurea asper.]

Asperula (asper -ru-lah). — Lat. diminutive of asper, rough ;
from the roughness of the leaves of the species belonging to
this genus.

Asperugo (asper-ru-go).~K form of the Latin asper, rough ;
from the roughness of the leaves.

Aspidium (as-pid-e-um). — (^v.,aspis(daTviQ,dani5oi), a shield:
shaped like a shield.

Aster (astir). — Gr., aster (darijp), a star ; from the star-like
appearance of the blossom.

Astragalus (as-tray-gal-us).—Gr., astragalos (darpayaXog),-
an ankle-bone. This name is derived from the knotted appear-
ance of the root of the plant to which the name was ori finally
given. °

Athamanticum (a-tham-an-tik-um).—'Pei:tammg to Atham-
antis, grandson of Helen.

Atrata (a-tray-tah). — Lat., ater, black ; so named from the
black spikelets. [Caeex atrata.]

Atriplex (a-lrip-plex). — Gr., a (d), not ; trcpheiii (rpeiptiv), to
nourish. The plants possessing this name afford no nourish-
ment.

Atropa (at-trS-pah). — Named after Atropos, one of the

14

Fates, who was supposed to cut the thread of human destiny.
This plant is poisonous.

Auricomus (or-re-kil-mus). — Lat., aurum, gold ; coma, hair.
The popular English name is Goldilocks. [RAXCXCaLUS
AURICOMUS.]

Auricula (or-rik-cu-la). — Lat., auricula, a little ear. The
fruits of these plants are broadly ovoid, and the two ends are
lobed, or auriculate, i.e. having a pair of ears.

Austriaca [or-stry-a-ca). — From the name Austria. [Poly-
gala Austriaca.]

Autumnalis (aulum-nay-lis). — Lat., auiumnalis, flowering
in the autumn. [Adonis autumnalis.]

Avellana {a-vel-lay-nah). — Pertaining to Avella, a town of
Campania. [Corylus Avellana.]

Avena {a-veen-a). — Gr., a (a), without ; vena, a vein : vein-
less.

Aviculare [a-vih-cu-lare). — Lat., avicwZws, a little bird. [Poly-
gonum AVICULARE.]

Avium (a-ve-zim). — Lat., avis, a bird (avium, gen. plural).
The fruit of Prunus avium is greedily devoured by birds as
soon as they are ripe.

Axillaris (ax-il-lair-ris). — Lat., axilld,ih.Q armpit : growing
in the axils of the leaves.

15

B.

Babingtonia. — Named after Prof. Babington. [Atriplex
Babingtonia.]

Bachii.— Named after a M. Bach. [Eanunculus fluitans,
var. Bachii.]

Bakeri. — Named after Mr. Baker, a botanist. [Rosa canina,
var. Bakeri.]

Balbisii.— Named after M. Balbis. [Hypochosris glabra,
var. Balbisii.]

Balfourianus. — Named after Prof. Balfour, an eminent
botanist. [Rubus Balfourianus.]

Ballota {bal-ld-tah). — Gr., ballo (/3dX\w), I throw off: re-
jected. So named from the offensive smell of the plant.

Baltic!. — Named after the Baltic, on the shores of which
this plant is abundant. [Psamma Baltici.]

Barbarea {bah-bear~re-ah). — Named after St. Barbara, to
whom this plant was formerly dedicated.

Bartsia (bart-se-ah). — Named in honour of John Bartsch, an
eminent Prussian botanist.

Bastard! (bas-tah-dye). — Lat., bastardm, bastard : hybrid.
[Iris PSEUDACORUS, var. Bastardi.]

Baudotii. — Named in honour of a M. Baudot. [Ranuncu-
lus Baudotii.]

Beccabunga (bec-kah-bun-gah). — Latinised form of Teutonic
bachbunga. Bach,fprov. Eng. or beck = brook; hence Brook-
lime. [Veronica beccabunga.]

Belladonna (bella-don-nah). — Ital., bella donna, fair lady.
This plant was formerly used as a cosmetic. [Atropa.]

Bellardi. — Named in honour of Mr. Bellard. [Re bus
glanuulosus, var. Bellardi.]

Beilis (bel-lis). — Lat., bellus, pretty.

Benekenii. — Named after Mr. Beneken. [Bromus asper,
var. Benekenii.]

Berberis (ber-be-ris). — This v'ord is of Arabic origin.

Beta (be-tah). — The Latin name for the plant.

IG

Betonica (M-ton-c-hah) . — ‘ This name has been altered from
hentonic in Celtic, hen meaning head ; ton, good or tonic.’ —
Sir J, Hooker. Or else from veUonica, the plant of the
Vettones. [Stachys.]

Betula tJ)Meu-lah). — The Latin name for the tree.

Bidens {btd-ens). — Lat., bis, twice; (fens, a tooth. The struc-
ture of the fruit of this plant is like a double tooth.

Biennis {be-en-nis). — Lat., bis, two, twice; annus, a year:
of two years’ continuance. [Q5.sotheea.]

Bifida {be-fl-dah). — Lat., bifidus, cleft ; divided into two
parts. [GaleOpsis tetrahit, \a.r. Bijida.]

Biflorus (bi-Jlorus). — Lat., bis, two ; flos, floris, a flower :
two-flowered. [Narcissus.]

Billie tii. — Named after M. Billiet. [Rosa sepiuji, var.

Eillietii.'\

Binervosa {be-nervo-sah). — Lat., bis, two ; nervosus, nerved :
two-nerved. [Statice.]

Biserrata (bi-ser-rayrtah). — Lat., bis, two ; serratus, sawed ;
from the doubly serrated leaves. [Rosacanika, xar. Biserrata.]
Bistorta (bis-tor-tah). — Lat., bis, two, twice ; tortus, twisted:
twice twisted ; expressing the appearance of the root.
[Polygonum.]

Blattaria (blat-tare-re-ah). — Lat., blatta, a moth ; from the
down on the leaves, which resembles a moth’s wings. [Ver-
BASCUM.]

Bloxamii. — Named after a Mr. Bloxam. [Rueus.]

Blysmus (blis-mus). — From a Gr. word signifying a spring,
near which these plants are found growing.

Bohartii. — Named in honour of a Mr. Bobart. [Victa an-
GUSTIFOLIA, var. Bobartii.]

Bocconi. — Named after Signor Boccone. [Trifolium.]
Boehmeri. — Named after a M. Boehmer. [Puleum.]
Boenninghauseniana. — From HerrBoenningbausen. [Carex.]
Borago (bor-ray-gd. — A corruption of the Lat. cor, a he.art ;
and ago, I bung ; from the use made of it in stimulating
drinks.

Borealis (bS-rS-a-lis). — Lat., ftorcos, the north wind ; northern,
from the cold northern places of growth. [IIiER.tciuM.]

17

Borreri. — Named in honour of a Mr. Borrer. [Eubus
SPKENGELii, var. Borreri.']

Botrychium (ho -try -hey -urn). — From Gr. boirus (jSorpvg), a
bunch of grapes.

Botryoides (hS-try-oides). — Gr., hotrus (iSorpvg), a bunch of
grapes ; ides, like : like a bunch of grapes. [Chenopodium.]

Botrys (hU-trys). — Gr., hotrus (fSorpiig), a bunch of grapes :
the flowers are arranged in a cluster. [Teuceium botrys.]

Brachypodium (hray-heij-po-de-vm). — Gr., hrachus (I3paxvc),
short ; pous (Trovg), a foot : short-footed.

Brassica (hras-se-hali). — Celtic hresic, a cabb.age.

Breweri. — Named after Dr. Brewer. [Helianthemttm
GULTATUM, vai’, Breiveri.]

Briggsi. — Named after a Mr. Briggs. [Rubus Ftsco-ATER,
var. Briggsi.]

Briza (hris-za). — Gr., Jndzo (ftpi^io), I tremble : trembling
and quaking.

Bromus (hro-mus). — Gr., hroma (jSpiopa), food ; from the use
made of this grass.

Bryonia (bry-o-ne-ali). — Gr., hryo (l3piio), I bud. The rapid
and luxuriant growth of the gourd tribe is proverbial.

Bufonius (hoo-foe-ne-us). — Lat., hufo (hufonis), a toad ;
toad-rush, because it is small, and grows in toad-haunts.
[■Juxcus.]

Bulbifera (hul-hi-ferali).—'Lsit, bulbus, a bulb ; fero, I bear :
bulb-bearing. [Dentaeia.]

Eulbocastanum (biilbo-cds-tay-mim).— Lat., bidhus, a bulb;
ccistanect, a chestnut: having a bulb like a chestnut j tuberous.
[Carum.]

Eulbosus (hul-ho-sus). — Lat., hulhus, a bulb : bulb-bearing.
[Ranunculus.] °

Baniuni (hu-ne-um). — Gr., bounos (ISovvog), a hill ; or from
the same word as bunion, from the nut- like root. These plants
delight in hilly places.

Bupleurum (beu-pleurum). — Gr., bous {(Sovg), an ox; pleuron
(■rrXivpov), a rib ; from the thick ribs on the leaves of some of
the species bearing this name.

Eursa-pastoris (bur-sah-pust-or-ris).~La.t., bursa, a purse ;

18

pastor, a shepherd ; shepherd’s-purse, from the fanciful re-
semblance of the seed-vessel to a small purse. [Capsella.]
Eutomus {beu-toe-mus), — Gr., bous ((iovg), an ox; tem.no
(ri/ivw), I cut. The plants are so called because cattle, when
feeding on them, are apt to cut their mouths with the sharp
leaves.

Buxbaumii. — Named after Mr. Buxbaum. [Vebonica.]
Euxus ifiux-sus). — The Latin name for the tree.

19

0.

Cserulea (see-i'U-le-ah). — Lat., caruleus, dark Hue, azure ;
also dark-coloured.

Caesius (sees-S-us). — Lat., ccesius, of a bluish-grey colour.
[Rubus.]

Ceespitosa {sees-p^-toe-sah). — Lat., ccespes (gen. ccespitis), a
tuft : growing in a tuft. [Saxifbaga.]

Cakile (cac-kS-lS). — From the Arabic.

Calamus (kal-am-us). — Lat., calamus, a reed : reed-like.
[Acoeu.s. ]

Calamagrostis {kal-am-agros-tis). — Gr., kalamos {Ka\a[j.og), a
reed ; agroslis {aypioang), grass : reed-grass.

Calamintha {kdl-lah-mln-tJmh). — The Greek name for mint.

Calcarea {kdl-care-ree-ah). — Lat., calcar, a spur : spurred.
[Viola hirta, var. Calcarea.']

Calceolus (kdl-see-S-lus). — The Latin for a small shoe or
slipper. [Cyfripedium.]

Calcitrapa (kal-see-tray-pah). — Probably from Latin calx
{calcis), lime : growing on limestone. [Viola.]

Calenduliflorum (kal-en-deio-le-florum). — Lat., calendce, the
kalends ; Jlos (Jloris), a flower ; floavering monthly. [Hiera-

CIUM.]

Callitriche (kallU-trik-kee).—Gr., kalli- (/cdWi-), in com-
pound words gives the idea of beauty ; and thrix gen.
rpixog), hair. The water-starworts have long, silvery, hair-
like roots proceeding from the joints of the stems, from which
the name is derived.

Calluna {kal-lu-nali). — Gr., kalluno (/caWww), I cleanse.
The twigs of Calluna are frequently used for making brooms.

Caltha (kal-thah). — Lat., calalhus, a wicker basket ; from the
resemblance of the flower to this article. This plant bears
basket-like blossoms, avidening at the top.

Calycinum (kd-lie-sin-um). — Gr., kcdux {koXv%, KaXvKog), a
flower-bud ; probably on account of the showy flowers. [Hy-
pericum.]

20

Calystegia (ha-U slZgi.ah).~Gr., kalux (xaXv^), the flower
cup (calyx) ; stegoa {areyog), a covering.

Cambrica (kam-hrlk-cah). — A name for Wales, where thi?
plant is found. Welsh Poppy. [Mecoxop.sis.]

Camelina (cam-mUk-7iah).~GT., cliamai (\ajiui), on the
ground ; linon {\ivov), flax : ground-flax.

Campanula {kam-pan-7i,-lah).—La,b., ca^npam, a bell ; a
little bell ; from its resemblance to such.

Campestre {kam-pes-tree) . — Lat., campeater, pertaining to a
plain : growing in plains. [Lepidtum.]

Canadensis.— Introduced from Canada. [Erigeeos.]
Canariensis.— Introduced from the Canary Islands. [Pha-

LAEIS.]

Candicans {kati-di-cana). — Lat., candesco, L become white,
hoary : of a white colour. [Chexopodium albitsi.]

Canesoens (/jun-es-cens).— ^Lat., caneaco, I grow hoary. [Coey-
NEPHOEtJS.]

Canina (kan-i-nah). — Lat., caninua, pertaining to a dog:
canine, opposed -to cultivated. Cf. Dog-rose. [Viola.]
Cannabinum (kan-nay-bi-num). — Lat., cannabis, hemp.
[Eupatorium.]

Canum {kay-num). — Lat., canua, white, hoary. [Heljax-
themijm.]

Capillus-Veneris (kd-pil-lus - veneris). — Lat., capillus, hair;
Veneris, of Venus : the maiden-hair fern. [Adiaxtuji.]
Capitatus (cdp-e-tay-tiLs). — Lat., caput, a head : furnished
with a globose head. [Juxcas.]

Caprea (kay-pree-ah). — Probably from Latin caper, a goat ;
goat-willow ; or else Caprean, willow, from the place Caprea.
[Salix.]

Caprifolium [cap-rc-/6-lev,m). — Lat., caper, a goat ; folium, a
leaf. Goats are fond of eating the leaves of Loxicera capri-
folium.

Capsella [cap-sel-lah). — The I atin diminutive of capsa, a bo.x,
a little box ; relating to the purse-shaped seed-vessel.

Cardamine {car-day-min-ec). — Gr., cardia {KopSia), the heart ;
dainao (Sapau)), I fortify ; from the supposed strengthening
properties.

21

Cardiaca {car-de-a-kah). — Lat., cardiacus, pertaining to the
heart; from the supposed medicinal properties. [Leonukus.]

Carduns (car-dew-us), — The Latin name for the plant.

Carex (care-rex). — The Latin name for the plant. Virgil
speaks of a Carex acuta ; but this seems to be a rush rather
than a sedge.

Caricina (carc-ris-e-nah). — From carex, a sedge ; sedge-like.
[Kobresia.]

Carinata (care-ri-nay-tah). — Lat. , carina, a keel. The lower
petals have a keel-shaped appearance. [Valerianella.]

Carlina (car-ll-nali). — This name is the same as Carolina.
The tradition is, that the root of Carlina acaidis was shown
by an angel to Charlemagne as being a remedy for the plague
which was prevailing in his army.

Carota (kare-ro-tah). — The Latin name ; French, caroite ;
English, carrot. [Daucus.]

Carpinus (car-pl-nus). — The Latin name for the tree.

Carpinifolius (car-ple-n^-/6-leus).—La,t., carpinus ; folius, a
leaf : having a leaf like that of the Carpinus. [Rubus.]

Carum (care-rwm).— From Caria, a country of Asia Minor.

Caryophyllus (cai'ry-S-phil-lus). — -Gr., karuon (Kapvov), a nut;
phullon (fvWop), a leaf : nut-leafl The Greek equals healve
quarariful, a clove.

Caspia. — From Caspia. [Statice.]

Castanea (kas-tay-ne-ah). — The Latin name for the tree, and
Greek kastanon (Kaaravov),

Catabrosa (kat-ah-bro-sah), — Gr., katabrosis [KarajSptamg), a
gnaAving ; so called from the jagged extremity of the glume.

Cataria (cat-tare-re-ah) — Gerarde, giving the meaning of the
name, says, ‘The later herbalists doe cal it Herba cattasiar, or
Herba catti, because the cats are very much delighted here-
with.’ [Nepeta.]

Catharticum (kath-thar-tl-kum).—Gr., kathartikos (KaBapn-
Koc), purgative; from the purging and cleansing qualities.
[Linum.]

Caucalis (cor-kay-lis). — The Greek name for the plant.

Caulescens (korl-es-cens), — Lat., caulescens, growing up into
a stem. [Primula vulgaris, var. Caulescens.]

2

22

Celerata {d le-ray-tah).—Vxoh&h\y from celery, from the
likeness of the leaves; celery-like. Cf. CUraia. [Rosa
CAKiNA, var. CeUrata.']

Centaurea {sen-tor -rc-ah). — From Chiron the centaur, who is
said to have healed his patients with these plants.

Centaurium {sen-tor -re-um). — See Ckironifi and Cenlaurea-
[ERyTHHiEA.]

Centranthus {sen-tran-thus).—Gr., keniron {Kevrpov), a spur;
aiithiis {dvOog), a flower : spurred-flowered,

Centunculus {sen-tun-q-lus). — Lat., centunculus, patchwork.
This plant is one of the smallest among our British flora, being
usually only one inch in height. It has six or eight leaves,
and as many crimson blossoms, which are axillary and sessile,
making the little plant look like a piece of patchwork.

Cephalanthera {cepli-al-lan-the-rah). — Gr., kephalee (ct^iaXij),
a head ; anthos {dvBog), a flower : having the flowers arranged
in heads.

Cerastium {se-ras-te-um). — Gr., keras {Kipag), a horn ; from
the shape of the capsule in some species.

Cerasus {cerd-sus). — Latin for a cherry. The tree was
brought from Cerasus into Pontus. [Phuaus.]

Ceratophyllum {ch'dtd-pliil-lum). — Gr., keras {lupac, gen.
K^parog), a horn ; phuUon {<pvX\or), a leaf : horndeaved. These
plants grow in streams, and the leaves appear like horns.
Cemua {sir-new-ah). — Lat., cernuus, looking towards the

earth ; drooping. [Saxifeaga.]

Ceterach {setter -rack). — A modification of Cetlieral, a term
applied to this plant by Arabian and Persian physicians.

Chaerophyllum {ke-rS-phil-lum). — Gr., cliairo {xaipw), I please;
pJiullon {(jjvXXov), a leaf. The leaves of some of the species
bearing this name have a very agreeable perfume.

Chamagrostis {kam-a-gro-stis).—Gr., chamai (x'npai), on the
ground ; agroslis {dypui<mg), a field ; a small, lowly species
growing in fields, near the ground. ,

Chamaedrys {kam-ee-di'is). — Gr., chamai {xapat), on the
ground ; drus {Spvg), a tree : ground-tree, from the shape of
the leaves and plant. [\eroxic.\.]

Chamcemorus {kam-ee-mS-rus). — Gr., chamai {yapai), on

23

the ground ; moron (/lopov), a mulberry j ground-mulberry.
[Rubus.]

Chamaepitys {cam-e-pU-is). — Gr,, chamai (xapai), on the
ground ; pitus (mrvg), a pine : ground-pine. Ajurja chainoepUys
is a prostrate, low annual.

Chamomilla (ham-oh-mil-lah). — Gr., chamai (xapai), on the
ground ; melon {pyXor), an apple : groiurd-apple, from the
odour of the flowers.

Chara {care-rah). — Supposed to be from the Greek, chairo
(xcnptu), I rejoice ; because these plants delight in water.

Cheiranthu8,(Hre-»’«7i-<Ms). — Derived from an Arabic word.
[Brassica.]

Cheiranthoides (kire-ran-thoi-dees). — Cheiranthus; oides, like :
I’esembliug the Cheiranthns. [Erysimum.]

Chelidonium (kel-i-doe-ne-um).—Gr., chelidon (xtXioiov), a
swallow. The fable is, that the yellow juice of this plant was
used by the swallows for curing the blindness of their young.

Chenopodium {kee-no-po-de-um). — Gr., clien (x>/u), a goose ;
pous (ttovc), a foot : goose-foot, from the similarity of the
leaves.

Cherleria. — Named in honour of a Mr. .J. H. Cherler, a
great botanist.

Chironia (ki-roe-ne-ah). — This was the former name of the
genus ErythrcEa, and was called so after Chiron the centaur.
One species is still called Gentxiurium.

Chlora (klur-rali). — Gr., chloros (xXcopog), yellow ; from the
colour of the flowers.

Chloranthus {klOr-ran-thus), — Gr., chloros ix^^pog), yellow;
anihos (dvOog), a flower : yellow-flowered. [Habenaria.]

Chrysanthemum (krl-san-them-um).—Gr., chrusos ixpvaoc),
gold ; anthemon (dvOtpov), a flower : golden-flowered.

Chrysocoma (kri-sSko-mah). — Gr., chrusos (xpvaog), gold ;
kome (Kopn), hair : goldilocks, from the bright yellow

flowers

Chrysosplenium {]crl-so-spke-ne-um).—Gr., chrusos [xpvirog},
gold ; splen (anX-pv), the spleen ; from the supposed medi-
cinal properties belonging to the plants.

Cicendia [sl-sen-de-ah), — The origin of this word is doubtful.

2—2

24

Hooker and Arnott say it is from the Latin ctdmwiM, cnrled.
If this is the case, it is very inappropriate, as our English
specimens are very upright.

Cicuta (st-q-tah). — The Latin name for hemlock. This plant
is said to be so called because it destroyed the sight.

Cichorium {sl-cor-ri-um). — Supposed to be from the Arabic
chikouryeh, Lat., cichorium.

Ciliaris (si-lS-air-ris). — Lat., cilium, an eyelash : fringed with
hairs. [Ekica.]

Ciliata [si-lS-d-iah), See Ciliaris. [Sagina.]

Cinerea {si-near-re-ah). — Lat., cf?iereits, ash-coloured. [Erica.]
Circaea {sir-sea-ah). — After Circe, the enchantress.

Circinatus (sir-si-nay-tus). — Lat., circino, I turn round,
curled ; e.g., the young fronds of ferns, [Rakukculus.]
Citrata (sii-tray-tah). — Lat., citrus, a lemon : lemon-like.
Cf. Celerata, etc. [Mentha.]

Citriua (sit-rye-nah). — Lat., citrus, a letfion; of a yellow-
green colour. [Iri.s fcetidlssima, var. Citrina.]

Cladium [clay-de-um). — Gr., Hados {K\adog), a twig : twig-
rush.

Clarkei. — Named after a Mr. Clarke, a botanist. [Caedhcs
HYBREDi, var. Clarkei.]

Claviculata (clay-vik-q-lay-tah).—L&t., clavicula, a tendril :
having tendrils. [Coryd.4.lis.]

Claytonia. — After Dr. Clayton.

Clematis (clc-mat-is). — Gr., klema (K\j;ga), a vine-shoot. A
plant of this name is mentioned by Dioscorides,

Clinopodium (cli-no-po-de-um). — Gr., klino (kXivw), I am
bent, I recline ; pous {rrovg), a foot. [Calamintha.]

Cnicus {sny-cus). — Gr., knizo {Kvi^oi), I prick ; from the
number of thorns these plants are provided with.

Cochlearia {coke-lee-air -re-ah). — Lat., cochlearis, a spoon ;
from the spoon-shaped leaves.

Colchicum {col-chl-cum). — From Colchis, a country famous
for medicinal herbs.

Colemani. — After Mr. Coleman. [Rubus.]

Collina {col-lie-nah).—La,t., collis, a hill ; pertaining to hilly
districts. [Myosotis.]

25

Columbaria (c84«m-6ea)’-re-«A).— Lat., columbar, a kind of
collar like a pigeon-hole. [Scabiosa.]

Columbinum {cS-lum-by-7ium,).—'La,t, columba, a dove. The
leaves resemble a dove’s foot. [Geranium.]

Columnae {cS-lum-nee), — Lat., coltmna, a column. The
stamens and styles are consolidated. [Ieis.]

Comarum (co-mave-Tum), — Gr., komaros (icdinapog), the name
of a plant, quite distinct from our representative.

Communis (cSm-mew-nis). — Lat., communis, common ; ordi-
nary, general. [Pyrus.]

Commutatus {^c6m-mcw-ta,y-txis, — Latin for changed. [Bro-

MUS.]

Compactum (com-pak-tum). — Lat., compactus, compact,
strongly built. [Cerastium latifolium, var. Compactum.]
Composite {com-pSs‘it-tea). — Lat., compositus, comj)ouiul,
composite ; the tribe of compound flowers.

Compressus (com-press-us). — Lat., compt'cssus, pressed to-
gether : flattened laterally. [Blysmus.]

Concinna {con-sin-nah). — Lat., concinnus, neat, pretty.
[Rosa canina, var. Concinna.]

Confusus (con-few-sus). — Lat., confusus, eonfused, mixed up.
[Ranunculus Baudotii, var. Confusus,]

Conglomeratus [con-glom-err-ray tus).-~T\iQ Latin for heaped
together, clustered. [Rumex.]

Congesta [con-jess-tah). — Ltit., co)igestus, heaped up, heaped
together. [Luzula multiflora, var. Conglomeratus.]

Conica {co-nik-ah). — Lat., conus, a cone : the calyx having
the form of a geometric cone. [Silene.] °

ConifersB (cd-nif-fir-ree).—La.t., conus, a cone ; /e?-o, I bear:
cone-bearing.

Conium (co-«i-Mm).— The Greek word for hemlock.

Conjungens (con-jun-gens).—Lut., conjungo, I connect : joined
together. [Rubus corylifolius, var. Conjungens.]

Conopsea (co-nope-see-ah).—Qv., konops (kuv(o^), a gnat;
from the shape of the flower. Cf. Apifera, etc. [Gymna-
DENiA (Orchis).]

Conspersus {con-spur ■s^ls).— The Latin for scattered, dis-
persed. [Rumex.]

26

Convallaria {con-val-lair-re-ah). — Lat., convaUis, a valley ;
from the usual place of growth.

Convolvulus {con-vol-view-lus). — Lat,, convolve, I entwine ;
from the twisting habit of many of the species,

Conyza {cd-nigh-sah). — The Greek name for fleabane.
[Inula.]

Corallorhiza [cSr-ral-lo-rhids-zah). — Gr,, korallion (icopaXKiov),
coral ; rhiza a root : coral-rooted. This plant has

curiously toothed roots, which resemble branched coral.

Cordata {cor-day-tah). — Lat., -cor, the heart: having heart-
shaped leaves. [Listeea.]

Cordifolia (cor-de-foe-le-ah). — Lat., cor, the heart ; folium,
a leaf : having heart-shaped leaves. [Rosa hibebnica, var.
Cordifolia.']

Coriander {cur-re-an-der). — The Greek name for the plant.
In Greek meaning a bug, from the odour.

Coriifolia (cor-ee-efoe-le-ah). — Lat., coriun?, leather •, folium,
a leaf : having coriaceous or leathery leaves. [Rosa canina,
var. Coriifolia.']

Corniculata [cor-nik-q-lay-tah). — Lat., cornicula, a little
horn : horn-shaped. [Lotus.]

Cornubiense (cor-ncio-he-cn-sce). — Gornish. [Physospermum. ]

Cornus (cor-nus). — From the shrub so called by the Latins,
from the horn -like nature of the wood.

Coronopus (cu-rd-no-pus). — Gr., Icorone [Kopiovi]), a crow ;
pous (ttovq), a foot ; the leaves resemble a crow’s foot. [Sene-
BIEBA.]

Corrigiola (cor-ridge-e-o-lah). — Lat., corrigia, a strap ; from
the shape of the leaves.

Corydalis {corrie-dd-lis). — The Greek name for fumitorj ;
meaning a helmet, from the form of the flower.

Corylifolia (corrie-llfoc-le-ah). — Corylus ; and Latin ybh'awi,
a leaf : having a leaf like that of the Corylus. [Rubus.]

Corylus {corric-lus). — The Latin name for the tree.

Cotoneaster {cd-toc-nc-as-ter). — Lat., cotonea — Gr., kudonios
{KvSiovioc), Cydonian. The Cydonian apple is the quince.

Cotonifolia (c3-«oc-ni-/o-fe-aA.— Having leaves like those of
Cotonea. [Salix nigricans, var. Coionfolia.]

27

Cotula (cot-tue-lah). — Etymology uncertain. The May-weed
was thus called by the old herbalists. [Anthemis. ]

Cotyledon (cS-tie-le-don). — Gr., kotule {kotvXj]), a cup ; from
the shape of the leaves.

Craoca {crack-kah). — Probably named after the discoverer.
[ViCIA.]

Crambe (cram-he). — The Latin and Greek word for a cabbage.

CratcEgus (cray-tea-gus). — Gr., kratos {Kparoc), strength ;
alluding to the hardness of the wood.

Crenata (cree-nay-tah). — Lat., crena, a notch; the leaves
have convex teeth. [Saxifraga geum, var. Crenata.]

Crepis {cre-pis). — Gr., krepis (/cpjjTrtc,), a slipper or boot.
It is not known why this name has been given to these
plants.

Crinita {cry-nigh-tah). — Lat., crmis, hair: bearded. [Ciiara.]

Crispus (c7-is-pus). — Lat., crispus, curled ; crisped, irregularly
curled. [Rumex.]

Crista-galli [crls-tah-gal-lie). — Lat., crista, a plume, comb ;
gain, of a cock : cockscomb. [Riiinanthus.]

Cristatum [crts-tay-tum). — Lat., ci'istatus, tufted, crested.
[Melampyrum.]

Crithmoides [ertth-moi-dees). — Critkmim ; oMes =like : re-
sembling Grithmum. [Inula.]

Crithmum (c)'Uh-mum). — Gr., krithe {KpiOy), baidey. The
fruit of this plant somewhat resembles a grain of barley.

Crocata {crO-kay-tah). — Crocus-like. Cf. Citrata, [CEnan-

THE.]

Crocus (c7'ow-cus). — Gr., krokos {Kpoicog), saffron.

Crowe.ana. — After a Mr. Crowe. [Salix phylicifolia,
var. Croweaiia.]

Cruciatum {cru-see-a-tum). — Lat., crita:, a eross. The leaves
of Galium cruciatum are arranged in the form of a cross,

Cruciferae (cru se-fer-ree). — Lat., crux, a cross ;fero, I bear:
cross-bearing. The flowers in this tribe have their four petals
arranged in the form of a cross.

Cryptogrammo {crip-toe-gram-me).—Gr., h-uptos (Kpvirrog),
hidden ; gramma {ypafipa), a line ; referring to the hidden
sori.

28

Cryptopoda (,crip-toe-p^-dalt),—G., kruplos {ipwroe), hidden;
20OUS {irovQ, TTodog), a foot, [Rosa sepium, var. Cryptop^oda.]

Curta [cur -tall). — Lat., CMr<ws, short. [Cabex.]

Cuscuta [kew8-kew-tah). — From an Arabic word.

Cyanus [sigh-d-nus), — Gr., kuanos [icvavog), a cornflower;
[Centaueea.]

Cyclamen [sick-ld-men). — Gr., kukloa [icvKXog), a circle. When
in fruit the peduncles move in a circle towards the earth.

Cymosum (sigh-mow-sum). — Lat., cyrm, a sprout. The in-
florescence is developed in a centripetal manner, [Chexo-
PODIUM POLYSPERMUM, var. Cymosum.)

Cynanchica (sigh-nan-chick-kah). — Gr., kunanx [Kvvayx\
quinsy, for which complaint this plant was formerly thought
a specific. [Aspebula.]

Cynapium [sigh-nay -pe-um). — Gr., kuon [kuuv, icvvog), a dog ;
Lat., apium, celery : dog-celery, from its resembling, but not
being, the true celery. [CEnanthe.]

Cynodon [sigh-no- don). — Gr., kuon [kvu>v, Kvvog), a dog;
odous [oSovg), a tooth : dog’s tooth. See Cynapium.

Cynoglossum [sigh-no-glose-sum). — Gr., kunos [Kvvog), of a
dog ; glossa [yXwaaa), a tongue : hound’s tongue, from the
size and shape of the leaves.

Cynosurus [sigh-no-sure-us). — Gr., kunos [mvog), of a dog;
oura [ovpa), a tail : the dog-tail grass.

Cyperus [sigh-pi-rus). — The Greek and Latin name for the
plant. English name, according to Metbick, galingale.

Cypripedium [sip-rt-ped-e-um). — Gr., kupris [Kv-ptg), Venus;
pedion [ntSiov), a slipper ; Venus’ slipper, from the resem-
blance of the flower to a shoe.

Cystopleris [sis-top-te-ris). — Gr., kustos [icvarog), a bladder ;
pteris [Trrspig), a fern ; alluding to the peculiar form of the
indusiuui.

29

D.

Dactylis {ddh-te-lis). — Gr., daclule {SaKrvXij), a finger. The
spikes grow in the form of a finger,

Dactylon (dact-tl-lon). — Gr., dactide {daKrvXtj), a finger. The
spikelets of this grass all proceed from nearly the same point,
so as to appear digitate. [Cynodon.]

Daphne {daph-nee). — The Greek name for a laurel, the foliage
of which resembles that of this plant.

Dasyphyllum (day-sigh-phil-lum). — Gr., dasus {Sacug), thick
with hair ; phullon (<pv\\ov), a leaf : downy-leaved. [Sebum.]
Daucoides {datv-co-idees). — Daucus ; and oides, like : resem-
bling the plant called Daucus. [Caucalis. ]

Daucus (daw-cus). — The Greek name for the plant.

Decumbens {dee-cum-hens). — Lat., decumbo, 1 lie down :
lying on the ground. [Triodia.]

Delphinium {del-phi-ne-um). — Lat., delphis, a dolphin. The
upper sepal of the flower bears a fanciful resemblance to this
fish.

Deltoides (delt-o-idees). — The Greek letter delta (A) ; oides,
like : resembling the Greek D, being triangular in section.
[Dianthus.]

Demersum [dee-mer-sum). — Lat., demersi, I dipped, I sunk
into : growing one half in the water, and the other half out.
[Ceratophyllum aquaticum, var. Dermrsum.']

Dens-leonis (dens-lee-oh-nis). — Lat., dens, a tooth; leonis, of
a lion ; from the tooth-like lobes of the leaves. [Taraxacum.]
Densus (den-sus). — Lat., densus, thick with foliage, crowded,
dense. [Potamogeton.]

Dentaria {den-tare-re-ah). — Lat., dens, a tooth ; from the
tooth-like protuberances on the root.

Dentata {den-tay-tah). — Lat., dentatus, toothed : having

toothed leaves. [Saxifeaga geum, var. Dentata.'\

Depauperata {de-por-per-ray-tah). — Lat., dep)auperatus, im-
poverished : imperfectly developed. [Carex.]

Depressa (dee-press-ah). — Lat., depressus, lying low, de- •
pressed. [Dryas octopetala, var. Depressa.\

20

Darasus (de-raij-sus). — Lat., de, down ; rasus, stripped : cut
down. [Rubus villicauli.s, var, De.romus.']

Desvauxii. — Named in honour of a M. Desveaux- [Rosa
STYLO.SA, var. Desvauxii. 1

D onthus (die-an-^/iM.s). — Gr., Dios (Aiof), Jupiter; anthoa
(dvOot;), a flower : the flower of Jupiter ; from the fragrance
and beauty of the species belonging to this genus, the flowers
have been dedicated to Jupiter.

Dicksoniana. — Named after a Mr. Dickson. [Salix phtli-
ciFOLiA, var. DicIcsoniana.'\

Diffusa (dif-few-sah). — Lat., diffusm, spread out. [Paeie-

TAPvIA.]

Digitalis [dtdg-il-tay-lis). — Lat., digitate, the finger of a
glove, which the spikelets resemble.

Digitata [dldg-it-tay-tah). — Lat., digitattis, having fingers ;
with several leaflets radiating from a common point. [Caeex.]

Digraphis {die-graph-phis). — Gr., dia {Sta), across; grapho
{ypafui), I write : written across, from the curious markings.

Dioica (die-oi-lcah). — Gr., dis {5lq), two ; oikos (oikoc), a
house : two-housed, meaning that the stamens and pistils are
on different plants : dioecious. [Urtica.]

Diotis {die-oh-tis). — Gr., dis {dtg), two ; ous {ovc, gen. urog),
an ear : two-eared, alluding to the structure of the fruit.

Diplotaxis {dip-low -tax-is). — Qir.,diplos (5ia-\of), twice; taxis
(rn^ie), order, or in a row. The seeds are placed in two
rows.

Dipsacus {dip-say-cus). — Gr., dipsao {Si\f/doj), I thirst. The
leaves of these plants are united at the base, so as to form a
sort of reservoir, in which the water collects; from this
fact, the plant was named Dipsacus, meaning thirsty.

Disseotum {dis-sek-tum). — Lat., dissectus, cut, dissected ; re-
ferring to the leaves. [Geeaniitm.]

Distans {dis-tans). — Distant. The spikelets of Carex distans
are few and far between.

Disticha {dis-tie-kah). — Gr., dis {Sig), twice ; stichos {artxog),
a rank : being in two rows, opposed to each other.

Diurna {die-ur-nah).—LsA., diurnus, by day : flowering in
the daytime. [Lychnis.]

31

Diversifolius (die-ver-si-foe-le-us). — Lat., diversus, opposite;
foUns, a leaf : opposite-leaved. [Ranunculus.]

Divisa (die-vie-sah). — Lat., divims, divided. [Caeex.]
Divulsa (die-vul-sah).—LdA,., divulsus, divided, separated.
[Garex.]

Doronicum {dor-roe-nthum). — The origin of this name is un-
certain, but Phillip.s says it is from the Arabic doronigi or
diirugi (‘ Flor. Hist.,’ i. 382).

Dortmanna. — Named after a Mr. Dortmanu. [Lobelia.]
Draha (dra-bah). — Gr., drabe (Spa/3t]), acrid ; from the bitter
taste which some of the species have.

Drosera (dro-se-rah). — Gr., di'oseros {Spo(TEpog), dewy. The
leaves of the Droseros are covered with tentacles, which exudo
viscid drops, to enable them to capture insects, which they
digest. These drops look like dew, especially when the sun
is shining on them.

Drouetii — Named in honour of a M. Drouet. [Ranun-
culus.]

Lryas (dry-as). — Gr., drus {opvg), an oak ; from a fanciful
resemblance of the leaves to an oak.

Dryopteris (c?7T/-oj)-<e-ris). — Gr., d?7(s {Spug), an oak ;
{TTTEptg), a fern : the oak-fern.

Dubium [detv-be-um). — Lat., dubius, doubtful. [Papaver.]
Dulcamara (dull-sah-mare-rah). — ~La,\,.,didcis, sweet; amarus^
bitter : bittersweet. [Solanum.] ’

Duriuscnla (dure-re-us-q-lah). — Lat., duriuscula, somewhat
hard. [Festuca eubra, var. Duriuscula.'\

Dysenterica (dis-en-ier'ikah). — Gr., dusmteria (SvmvTEpia),
dysentery ; denoting that this plant is a remedy for that ill-
ness. [Inula.]

82

E.

Ebracteat'-is {e-brak-te-a-tm). — Lat., e, without ; hraclea, a
bract : without bracts. [Ornithopus. ]

Echinatus (ec-kl-nay-tus). — Lat., echinatm, set with bristles :
furnished with prickles. [Cynosurus.]

Echinochloa {ek-kie-no-chlo-ah). — Gr., echinos (sx'poc)) ^
bristle ; chloa (x^oa), a blade of grass : bristle-grass.

Echioides (ec-key-oidees). — Echium ; aides, like : resembling
the plant called Echium. [Helmintha.]

Echium (ek-key-um), — Gr., echis (ix‘c)> a viper. The foliage
of this plant was supposed to be an antidote against the bite
of the viper.

EfFusum (ef-few-sum). — Lat., effasus, spread out : bearing
many seeds. [Milium.]

Ehrharti. — Named after a German botanist, M. Ehrhart,

[SCROPHULARIA.]

Elatine {^lay-ti-nee). — See next. [Lixaria.]

Elatior (e-lay-te-or). — The comparative of Latin elatus,
elevated, raised. [Primula.]

Elatum (e-lay-tum). — Lat., elatus, high, elevated, erect.
[Galium mollugo, var. Elatum.']

Elegans (ee-lS-gans). — Lat., elegans, neat, pretty, elegant.
[Saxifraga geum, var. Elegans.]

Elodes {e-lo-des), — This name is wrongly spelt, being derived
from Greek kelos a marsh. [Hypericum.]

Elongatus (ee-lon-gay-tus). — Lat., elongo, I lengthen: elon-
gated. [Ranunculus peltatur, var. Elongatus.]

Empetrum [em-pet-rum). — Gr.,en(tv, spelt ty in compounds),
on ; petron {Ksrpov), a rock ; signifying the place of growth.

Ensifolia {en-sl-foe-le-ah). — Lat., ensis, a sword ; folium, a
leaf : having leaves with the shape of a broad sword. [Cepha-
LANTHERA.]

Epilobium {ip-p^-ld-be-um). — Gr., epi (Itti), upon; lobos
(\6/3oe), a pod. The flowers are placed on the summits of
pod-like seed-vessels.

83

Epimedium (ep-pi-mee-de-nm). — The etymology of this word
is uncertain.

Epipactis (ep-pl-pak-tis). — Gr., epi {km), upon ; pactis
(i^aKTtQ), a pipe,

Epithymum {ep-pe-ti-mum) . — Gr., epi {t-m), upon ; thumos
(Ovfiog), thyme : growing parasitically on thyme. [Cuscota.]

Erectum {e-rec-tum). — Lat., erectus, upright. [M^nchia.]

Erica {S-n-kah). — Gr., ereika {epuKa), heather : heath.

Ericetorum {i-rl s^-tor-rum). — See above ; growing on heaths
and commons. [Melampyrum pratense, var. Ericetorum.']

Erigeron (i-rl-je-ron). — Greek, meaning to grow old at an
early season. The seed-down appears early in the year.

Eriocaulon {erry-o-kau-lon),—Gr., erion {epiov), wool ; kaulis
{KavXig), a stem : possessing a woolly stem.

Eriophorus {erry-o-pM-rus). — Gr., erion {spiov), wool ;
pkero {(peptii), I bear : wool-bearing.

Erodium (i-rd-de-um). — Gr., erodion (ipudiov), a heron. The
fruit of this plant resembles a heron’s beak.

Erucifolius{g-?’«e-s?-/o-Ze-zts). — Eruca, and Lat. folium, a leaf :
bearing leaves resembling those of Eruca, a species of cole-
wort. [Senecio.]

Eryngium (e-ring -ge-um). — Gr., erungano (epvvyavui), I
vomit ; probably formerly used as an emetic.

Erysimum (er-ri-sim-um). — Gr., eruo (kpvu), I cure ; from
the supposed healing properties belonging to the plant.

Erythraea (e-rl-three-ah). — Gr., eruthros (tpvOpog), red ; from
the colour of the flowers.

Erythrospermum (^■ri-throw-spur-mum), — Gr., eruthros (ipv-
9pog), red ; sperma (aneppa), a seed : red-seeded. [Tarax-
acum officinale, var. Erythrospermum.]

Euonymus (you-own-y-mus).—Gv., Euonume (Evtupyyaj,), the
mother of the Furies ; alluding to the poisonous properties of
the fruit.

Eupatorium (you-pat-or-re-um). — Mithridates Eupator is
supposed to have brought this plant into use.

Euphorbia (you-phor-he-ah), — From Euphorbus, a physician
to Juba, king of Mauritania, who is supposed to have dis-
covered the value of this plant for use in medicine.

34

Euphrasia {you-phray-8e-ah).— From the Greek tuj/hromnit
(iv^poavvy), gladness ; from the valuable properties attributed
to the plant.

Europseus (your-ro-pe-us). — From Europe. The plants £0
named are indigenous only to Europe. [Tkollius.]

Excelsior [ex-cel-se-or). — The comparative of Latin exctlsus^
high : growing to a fair height. [F6axixu.s.]

Exigua [ex-ig-u-ah). — Lat., exUjuus, small, pretty. [Eu-
phorbia.]

Exiinium (ea:-ini-e-wni). ■»— Lat., eximius, select, distinguished.
[Hieracium.]

Extensa (ra-iere-sa7i).^Lat.,.extois?£^ .prolonged, extended;
referring to the long leafy bracts of Carex,

35

r.

Fagus ifay-gus). — The Latin name for the beech tree.

Falcata {fal-kay-tah). — Lat., falcatus, hooketl : sickle-
shaped, from the shape of the pod in Medicago Falcato.

Fallax (fal-lax). — Latin for deceptive; fallaciouSj deceiving,
[Parietaeia DIFFUSA, var. Fallax.]

Farfara {fav-J'av-vali). — Said to be from the Greek name foi’
the white poplar, which this plant somewhat resembles.
[Tussilago.] V

Farinosa (fa-rl-no-sah).—!,^.^, farina, meal, flour: having
the leaves covered with a soft, mealy down. [Primula.]

Fatua (yaf-i<-aA).— Lat., yhiims, insipid : tasteless. [Avena.]

Fedia (/ee-de-aA).— The origin of this name is uncertain.

Fennica {fen-nl-kah). — Derivation unknown ; probably
named after some botanist. [Pyrus pinnatifida, var. Ae?i-
nica.]

Ficaria {fhcare-re-ah).~La,t, ficus, a fig. Fig-wort = pile-
wort, on account of the roots. [Ranunculus.]

Ficifolium {fie-si-foc-le-um).—hs.t, ficus, a fig; folium, a
leaf : having leaves like those of the Ficus. [Chenopodium. ]

Filago (fie.lay-go).—l,at., filum, a thread. This name is
given to these plants on account of the white, thread-like
hairs that cover them.

FilRolius (fl-llfoc-le-us).~La,t., jilum, a thread ; ^
leaf: ‘having very narrow, thread-like leaves. [Hieraciuai
UMBELLATUM, var. FilifoUus.]

Filifonnes (fUlfor-mes).— Lat., filum, a thread ; /onnfs, a
form, shape : being as slender as thread. [Trifolium.]

Filix-femina (fl-lixfee-min-an).~Lat.,filix, a fern; fcmina,
a woman : the lady-fern. [Athylium,]

FUix-mas (fl-lix-mass). -Lat., filix, a fern ; mas, a male :
the male fern. [Nephrodium.]

Flammula {flam-mcu-lah).—T>imm\itivc of Latin flamma,
a flame ; from the appearance of the flowers. [Ranunculus. ]

Flava (flay-vah).—Lat., flavus, yellow, golden-coloured,
[Cabex.J

38

Flavescens (/7ay-re8S-cen«). — hai., flavesco, I become, yellow ;
of a yellowish hue. [Avena.]

Flavicornis (yfay-ul-cor-TiM). — Lat.,^ou«, yellow; comu, a
horn ; referring to the yellow spur. [Viola cakxsa, var.
i'YayicorTlis.]

Flexili^ {flexM-is).—l42Jb., flexilia, supple, pliant. [Najas.]
Flexuosum (Jkx-u-o-sum). — Latin for tortuous, twisting,
wavy. [THALicmuM minus, var. Flexmsum.']

Flocculosum (Jlock-u-lo-sum), — Lat., floccm, a lock of wool;
covered with tufts of hair. [Hieeacium.]

Floribundus (/o?--ri-6un-d?{s).— Lat., fios (gen. floru), a
flower ; bundus, a' suffix, signifying plenty : having numerous
blossoms.

Flos-cuculi (/oss-CM-CM-fie),— Lat., flos, a flower ; cucului, the
cuckoo : flowering at the season when the cuckoo first makes
its appearance. [Lychnis.]

Fluitans {Jhie-it-ans). — Lat., fluito, I fioat : fioating. [Ra-
nunculus.]

Fluviatile (Jlue-ve-at-il-e).—La.t., fluviatilis, belonging to a
river: growing in rivers. [Equisetum limosum, var. Fluviatile.^
Foeniculum (fee-nik-u-lum). — Lat., /osnum, hay. The smell
of these plants resembles the odour of hay.

Foetidus (fee-tid-us).—L3.t., feetidus, having a disagreeable
scent. [Helleboeus.]

Foliosus {foe-le-oh-sus), — Lat.,/bffit?7i, a leaf: having a dense
foliage. [Rubus.]

Fontana (Jbn-tay-naK). — Lat., fontanus, belonging to a
spring : growing in springs. [Montia.]

Forsteri. — Named in honour of a Mr. Forster. [Viola
CuETisii, var. Forsteri\.

Fragaria (fray -gar e-ve-ah). — Lat., fragra, a strawberry.
Fragariastrum (fray-gare-re-ae-irum). — From Fragaria,
which this flower very much resembles. [Potentilla.]
Fragiferuni (fray-jif-fr-rurn). — Lat., fraga, a strawberry ;
fero, I bear : strawberry-bearing. The flower-head of this
plant very much resembles a strawberry. [Teifolium.]
Fragilis (fradg-il-is). — Lat., fragilis, slender, fragUe
[Salix.]

37

Frangula (fmn-gu-lah).—Ldi,t., frangere, to break. This
plant is very slender, and easily broken. [Ruamnus.]

Frankenia.— Named in honour of John Franken, a Swedish
botanist.

Fiaxinus (y*ma;-4n*ws).-"The Tatin name for the ash tree.

Fritillaria — Lat., fvitilliiSy a <lice box,

which ’is the usual accompaniment of the chequer-board,
which the markings of this flower resemble.

Fruticosa (/rruf-e-co-sa/t).— Lat.,/r«to, a shrub : shrub-like.
[POTEXTILLA.]

Fucifera (fcw-st-ferah). — Lat., fucus, a disguise; fero, I
bear. [Ophkys akanifera, var. Fucifera,^

Fulva (Jul-vah). — Lat., fulvus, tawny-coloured. [Alofe-

CURT7S.]

Fumaria (few-mare-re-ah).—Lt^t, famus, smoke. In the
days of exorcism, the smoke of these plants was said to have
the power of expelling evil spirits..

Fusco-ater \fuss-cd-a-ter). — Lat. ,/uscJW, tawny, dark brown ;
aier, black : of a brownish-black colour. [Rubus.]

Fuscus (fim-cus). — Lat., fnscus, of a dark-bi'own colour
lawny. [Cyperus.] ’

S3

G.

Gagea, — Named in honour of Sir Thomas Gage.

Galanthus (gal-an-thna). — Gr., gala (yaXa), milk; anlhot
[rivOos), a flower ; milk-flower ; from its whiteness.

Gale (j/ay-fee).— Etymology doubtful. This was formerly
a generic name for some plant. [Myeica.]

Galeobdolon {gal-e-ob-dS-lon).-^ From, two Greek words,
meaning that the plant has the smell of a weasel.

Galeopsis {gal-e-op-sis). — Gr., galea (yaXsa), a weasel ; opsis
\orpig), appearance : this flower resembles a weasel.

Galium (gal-e-um). — Gr., gala (yaXa), milk. Some of the
species in this genus were used for curdling milk.

Gallica {gal-ll-kali).—Cova.ng from Gaul (France); Gallic..
[Filago.]

Gallii {gal-lt-i). — Coming from Gaul (France) ; Gallic.
[Ulex.]

Gastridium {gas-tri-de-um). — Gr., gaster {yaarrjg), a belly :
belly -like ; so named from the swollen ventricose glumes.

Geniculatus {jen-ik-q-lay-tus). — Lat., geniculatns, jointed
knotty. [Alopecukus.]

Genista {jen-is-tah). — From the Celtic gen, a shrub.

Gentiana (jen-te-d-nah). — Named in honour of Gentius, king
of Ill3’ria, who is said to have been the first to discover the
medicinal properties of these plants.

Geranium {jS-ray-ne-um). — Gr., geranos (yipavog), a crane.
The fruit of these plants bears a resemblance to the beak of
a crane.

Gerardi. — Named after Mr. Gerard. [Alsixe vekxa, var.
Gerardi.]

Germanica (jer-man-i-kah), — Lat., Germanicus, belonging to
Germany. [Filago.]

Geum {gee-um). — Gr., geuo {ysvw), I taste.

Gibba (gib-bah).—lia.t., gibbus, a swelling: having convex
swellings on the underside of the fronds. [Lemxa.]

Gibsoni. — Named after a Mr. Gibson. [C-AKDOCS uvbeilcs.
vai'. Gibsoni ]

S9

Gigantea (ji-rjaii-le-ah).~ljvi,t, (jiganleus, gigantic, huge.
[Dromus'.]

Githago {gilh-a-gd).— Etymology doubtful ; formerly a
generic name. [Lychnis.]

Glabrescens{f/fay-&ras-ce«i.).— Lai.o'fa&resco, Igrowsmootli :
getting smooth. [Bromus mollis, var. Glabrescens.]

Glabrum [glay-brum). — Lat., glaber, smooth. [Papaver
SOMNIFERUM, var. Olabrum.']

Glabratus (glay-braij-tits). — Lat , glaber, smooth. [Runus
MACROPHYLLUS, var. Glabratus.]

Gladiolus {glad-i-o-lus). — Lat., gladiolus, a sword ; from the
shape of the leaves.

Glandulosum {glan-deiv-ld-sum).—!,^.^., glandula, a gland :
having gland-like swellings. [Nephrodium dilatatum, var.
Glandulosum. ]

Glaucescens (glaw-hes-cens). — Lat,, glaucus, sea-green ;
being of a bluish-green colour. [Sebum Fo.sterianum, var.
Glaucescens.]-

Glaucium {glaw-ci-um). — ha,t., glaucus, sea-green; from the
bluish-green hue of the foliage.

Glaucus {glaic-cus). — Lat., glaucus, sea-green : referring to
the colour of the leaves. [Stellaria.] ^

Glaux (glawx).—Lut., glaucus, sea-green ; alluding to the
colour of the leaves.

Glechoma {glee-hd-mah).—Qr., glechoma {y\yx<»yn), penny-
royal. [Nepet.a.]

Globosum (j/fo-fio'-SHHr) —Lat., globosus, nearly spherical.
[tJlERACIUM.]

Globuhfera {glo-bew-li-ferah).~Ls,t, globulus, a globule, pill ;
fero, I bear. The involucres of Pihdaria globulifera are like
little pills.

Glomerata {glom-er-ray-ta).—hsX , glomero, I heap up : the
nowers being collected into a close head. [Campanula.]
Glutmosa (ghie-tm-oh-sah).~-Ltit., gluten, glue ; being co-
vered with a viscid substance [Betula alba, var. Glutinosa.]
yllus (gll cl-pldl-lus). — Gr., gluhos {yXvKoi;), sweet to
the taste ; plndlon (<pv\\ov), a leaf ; having sweet-tastiuc^
leaves. [Astragalus.]

3—2

'10

Gnaplialium (ndplia-h-um). — Gr., finaphaUqn (ypa<pakiovf,
soft down, with which the leaves of these plants are covered.
Gooiyera. — Named in honour of Mr, Goodyer
Gothicum (Goth-ihich-kum.— Gothic. [IIiehacicil]

Gracilis {gra-cUis).—l>^t., gracilis, thin, slender. [Vici.a.]
Graminea {gray-min-e-ah. — Lat. gramen (gen. graminii),
grass ; grass-like. [Stellakta.]

Grandiflora (gran-de-flo-rah). — Lat., grandis, large, great ;
flos, Jloris, a fio\ver : having large flowers. [Polygala
VULGARIS, var. Grandiflora.]

Grandifolia {gran-de-/o-le-aJi). — Lat., grandis, large, great ,
folia (plural), leaves : having large leaves. [Filia].

Granulata (gray-neio-lay-tali). — Lat., granum, a grain of
corn : having granules ; being rough on the surface. [Saxi-
ERAGA.]

Graveolens [grd-ve-o-lens). — Lat., gravcolens, strong smelhng.
noisome. [Apium.]

Gummifer (gum-ml-fer).-'La.t., gummi, gum ; fero, I bear :
having gum. [Daucds carota, var. Gummifer.]

Guntheri. — Named after a M. Gunther. [Rubcs.]
Guttatum (gut-tay-tum). — Lat., gulice, spots, speckles. The
petals of Helidnthemiim guttatum have a dark spot at their

Gymnadenia {jim-nah-dee-ne-ah).—Gr., gumnos [yvyvog),
naked, open ; adeii {adgv), a gland : having uncovered glands,
it is doubtful why the plant is so called.

Gymnogramme {gim-no-gram-me). — Gr., gumnos {yvpvoc .
naked ; gramme (rpap/i.v), a line : alluding to the naked and
linear soil

%

41

H.

Habenaria (hah-he-nair-re-ah).—l have been unable to trace
the etymology of this name ; but I think probably it has
been taken from a proper name.

Hailstoui. — After a Mr. Hailston. [Rosa canina, var.
Hailstoni.']

m

Halleri. — Named in honour of a Mr. Haller. [Oxytroj>is.]

Hamulata (hay-mew4ay-tah).—Ldit.,'>miiihis, a little hook :
covered with little hooks. [Callitriche.]

Hedera (heeder-rah). — The Latin name for the plant.

Hederaceus (Aeeder-ray-se-ws).— Lat., hederaceus, of ivy :
ivy-leaved. [Ranuncultts. ]

Hederifolia {heeder-rl-foe-h-ah).—La,t., hedera, ivy : folium,
a leaf ; ivy-leaved. [Veronica.]

Helenium (AeZ-Zg-ne-wm).— Tradition says that this plant
sprang up from the tears of Helen, wife of Menelaus. [Inula.]

Helianthemum [he-le-an-thee-mum).—QT., hellos (jjXiof), the'
sun ; anthemos {arOefiog), a flower : sunflower ; so called
because these plants e.xpand their flowers at spnrise.

Helioscopia {he-li-os-cd-pi-ah).—GT., hellos {iiXwg), the sun ;
skopos {(TKOTTog), a looker-on : looking towards the sun!
[Euphorbia.]

Helminthia (hcll-min-tM-ah).-Gr., helmia {IXfug), a worm •
from the shape of the fruit. ’

Helosciadum {hellos-ke-a-dum).—Gv., helos (eXog), a marsh;
skiadon (amaSov), an umbel. The marsh-worts grow in
marshy places.

Helleborus (hellle-hoar-rus).—Gv., helein (eXeiv), to injure ;

bora {(3of.a), food ; from the poisonous properties belonginor to
the plants so named. °

Helix {hi-bx).—Gi\, helix {'IXiH), a coil; from the twisting
habits of the plant. [Hedera.]

Heracleum (here-rak-clee-um).— From Hercules, who is said
to have bronght these plants into use.

Herbacea (her-bay-se-ah),- Lat., herbaceus, belonging t(»

42

herbs. ProtUicing an annual stem from a perennial root.
[Salicornia.]

Herminium (hey-mm-ne-um). — Either named after Hermis)
or from Greek hermen {epfiijv), a prop, support.

Herniaria . (Aer-?ie-atV-re-aA). — (Rupture-wort.) From the

name of the disease for which the plant was supposed to be a
remedy.

Heterophyllum (hUer-ru-pMl-lum). — Gr., heteros (trepog),
another ; phidlon (fvXKov), a leaf : having variation of leaves.
[Carduus.]

JLibeTaici (high-ber-nX-sigh), — Lat.,-fft6emia, Ireland ; Irish.
[Erica.]

Hieracioides [higher-ray -see-oides). — Hieractum, and ides=
like : resembling the Hieracium. [Pieris.]

Hieracium (higher -7'ay-see-um). — Gr., hierax (Vspa?), a hawk.
This bird was supposed to use these plants for strengthening
its sight.

Hierochloa (hifer-ro-chlo-ah), — Gr., hieros (ispof), holy ;
chloa (xhoa), grass; holy grass. In Prussia this grass is

dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and is strewed in the
churches.

Hippocrepis (hip-ioo-cree-pis). — Gr., hippos (irnrog), a horse ;
Icrepis (Kpijirig), a shoe : horseshoe-shaped.

Hippophae [hip>-po-phay-ee), — Of doubtful etymology.

Hippuris (Jiip-p>ure-7'is).—Gr., hippos i^nrirog), a horse ; oura
(o'vpa), a tail : mare’s-tail ; from the resemblance.

Hircina (her-sigh-nah).—La,t., hh-cinus, a goat ; from the
rough hairs on the leaves. [Mentha pubescens, var. Hircina.]

Hirculus (her-q-lus). — Diminutive of Latin hircus, a he-goat;
though why so named I do not know ; perhaps from the
smell. [Saxieraga.]

Hirta [her4ah).—La.t, hirtus, hairy ; rough with hairs.
[Viola.]

Hirsuta [her sue-tah).—Ls.i., hirsuhis, hairy. [Ranunculus.]

Hispidum [Jiis-pid-dum). — Lat., hispidus, hisjnd, rough,
hairy. [Papaver somniferum, var. Hispidum.]

Holcus [hol-kus). — Gr., holkos [b\Kog), a strap.

JLolosten [hollos- te-ah). — Gr., holos[o\og), all; odeon (oorfoj'\

415

a bone : ‘ all bone but why this name has been given to
these plants is unknown.

Holosteoides {hoUos-te-oidees).—HoIostea, and icZes = like.
Eesembling the Holostea. [Ceeastium triviale, var. HolosU-
o/des.]

Holosericeum {hollo-s^-rl-ce-nm). — Gr., holos (o\og), all.
Lat., sericMS, silky covered over with silky hairs. [Hieea-
CIUM.]

Honckeneya. — Named after M. Honckeney, a German
botanist.

Hordeum (Aor-de-uni). — The Latin name for barley.

Hottonia. — Named after Professor Hotton, of Leyden.

Humifusum {heiv-mt-/eiv-sum). — Lat., hiimi, on the ground;
Jhisus, spread out : spreading out on the ground. [Hyperi-
cum.]

Humilis {heW'W/l-lis), — Lat., humilis, on the ground: pros-
trate. [Carex.]

Humulus (Jmo-mu-lus). — Lat., humus, ri^ soil; in which
this plant grows.

Hutchinsia. — Named in honour of Miss Hutchins, of Ban-
try, Ireland ; a great botanist.

Hyacinthus (hl-ah-sin-thus). — Named after Hyacinth, wdio
W’as changed by Apollo into this plaift.

Hybridum (high-hrid-um). — Lat., hyhrklus, a mongrel. A
plant obtained by the pollen of one species being applied to
the stigma of another. [Pap.WER.]

Hydrocharis (high-drS-care-ris). — Gr., hudor (vdiop), water ;
charts (xaptg), elegance. These plants are pretty aquatics.

Hydrocotyle {high-dr^-co-tl-lee). — Gr., hudor {vSiop), water ;
lotuh (KOTvXr)), a platter : so named from the place of gi’owth,
aud also from the shape of the leaves.

Hydrolapathum {high-dro-ld-pay-thum). — Gr., hudor (vdutp),
water; Lat., lapathum, sorrel : water-sorrel. [Rumex.]

Hydropiper {Jdgh-dro-p)ie,-per). — Gr., hudor {vdujp), water;
Lat., piper*, pepper : water-pepper. [Polygonum.]

Hyemale (hiem-may-lee). — Lat., hiemalis, winter : flowering
ill the winter. [Equisetum.]

Hymenophyllum (high-tnean-Sphil-lutn). — Gr., humen {vpyv),

44

a membrane ; (<pv\\ov), a leaf : from the membranous

texture of the fronds.

Hyoscyamua {high-Ss cl-a-mus). — Gr., huos (roc), of a hog;
huaifios (icva/iog), a bean : hog’s bean.

Hypericum {high-peiTy-cum). — The Greek name for the
plant.

Hypnoides {hip-noi-dees), — Lat., hypnum, a moss ; idefs =
like : resembling moss, mossy. [Saxifeaga.]

Hypochoeris (high-pu-keer-ris). — From two Greek words,
meaning that these plants are fit only for hogs.

Hypoglottis (high-po-gloat-tis). — Gr., liupo (vtto), under ;
glotla {yXwTTa), a tongue : probablysreferring to the hairs on
the calyx. [Astragalus.]

Hypopitys (high-po-pit-ees). — Gr,, Jiupo (into), on; pilut
(thtvq), a pine-tree ; growing on pine-trees. [Moxoteopa.]

Hyssopifolia {hiss-su-pi-/o-le-ah). — Hyssop, and Latin folia,
leaves : bearing hyssop-leaves. [Lytheum.]

Hystrix {higk-strix), — The Greek and Latin name for a
porcupine, referring to the quantity of prickles. [Rubus.]

45

I.

Iberis (i-6e€r-j.s).— Introduced from Iberia (Spain).

Idseus (i-dee-us). — So called from the plant being found
abundantly on Mount Ida. [Eubus.]

Ilex (i-fea:).— This name was apj)lied by the Latins to some
tree similar to our holly.

Illecehrum (il-ke-ce.h-nim).—LaX., ilhcehra, an attraction :
attractive.

Illyricus {il-hri-cus), — Lat., IllyTicus, Illyrian j coining from
Illyria. [Gladiolus.]

Ilvensis (i7f-uen-sis).— Introduced from Ilva. [Wood.sia.]

Imbricatus {imbre-cay-tus).~La.t., imbricatus, overlapped :
the flowers overlapping each other, as in the tiles of a house.
[Rubus.]

Impatiens {im-pay-te-ens). — Lat., impatiens, impatient.
When the seeds are nearly ripe, the capsule, if' touched, will
instantly curl up into a spiral form, and spring from the
plant, scattering the seeds.

Implexa {hn-plex-ah). — Lat., impkxus, twisted, 'entwined.
[Rosa canina, var. Implexa.]

Incana (in-cay-nah). — Lat., incanus, grey, hoary. [Sinapis.]

Incarnata (in-car-nay-tah). — Lat., incarnis, of flesh ; flesh-
coloured. [Orchis.]

Incisum(i«-szgtA-si<m).— Lat.,iwci5MS, cut, dissected ; referrint^
to the cut leaves. [Lamium.] ' °

Incurvatus [in-cur-vay-tus). — Lat., incurvo, I bend : curved
[Rubus.]

^flata (m-flay-tah). — Lat., ivjlatuji, inflated, swollen •
pufifed out. [Silene.]

Inodora (in-H- door -rah).

[Matricaria.]

Intermedius (in-ter-mee-de-us). — Lat., intermedins, inter-
mediate : coming between one species and another. [Ranun-
culus.] -

Interrupta (in-ter-rup.lah).~Lat., inter, between; ruptus,
Broken : the regular continuity being broken.

4C

Intricata (in-ire-ciiy lcih). — Lat., inlrico, I entangle : en-
twined, entangled. [Salix viminalts, var. Iniricaia.]

Intybus The Latin name for chicory. [Cuicn-

ORIUM.]

laula (i-neio-lah). — The Latinname for elecampane.
Inundatum (in-un-day-tum). — Lat., inundo, I inundate.
This plant is often half immersed in water. [HELO.saADiCM.]
Involuta {in-vB-lcw-tah) . — Lat., involutus, wrapped, up,
turned in ; having the edges of either the petals or the leaves
rolled inwards. [Rosa.]

Iris {ire-ris). — From iris, the rainbow, on account of the

beautiful colouring of the flowers.

Irrigua — Lat., irriyuus, marshy, swampy ,

alluding to the place of growth. [Caeex.]

Isnardia (is-Jinr-cfe-aA).— Named after Antoine dTsnard,
who lived in the eighteenth century.

Isoetes (i-sS-e-iees).— Probably from Greek isos (iooc), equal ;
f tes (erijc), a kinsman.

47

J.

Jasione {jay-sigk-S-nee). — Of doubtful etymology ; the
name is used by Theophrastus.

Juncus {jun-cus). — The Latin for a rush,
luniperus (jew-n“ip-pl-rus). — Celtic jimiperus, rough.

•43

K.

Kali {hay-lie). — Lat., cauUs, a stalk. It is a corrnptioiL
'English names : kale, kail, cole. [Sal.sola.]

Knautia. — Named in honour of Christopher Knaut, a Saxon
botanist.

Kobresia.— Named after Mr. Kobres.

Kochii.— Named after M. Koch. [Thalictecm majcs, var.
Kochii.'\

Koehleri.— Named in honour of M. Koehler,

49 •

L.

Labiatoe (lay-bc-d-tee). — Lat., labium, a lip. The llowei’s in
this tribe have a 'inonopetalous corolla, with two unequal
divisions i-esembling a pair of lips.

Laciniatum (lay-sine-d-tum). — Lat., lacinia, a fringe;
fringed. [Chelidonium majus, var. Laciniatum.]

Lactea (lak-te-ah). — Lat., lacteus, of a milky colour : milk-
white. [Viola.]

Lactuoa (lak-teio-laJi). — Lat., lac, milk, the colour of which
the juice of these plants resembles.

Lacustris (lay-cus-tris). — Lat., laciis, a lake, pond : growing
in ponds. [Littoeella.]

Ladanum (lay-da-num). — Named from Ladas, a renowned
runner ; formerly a generic name. [Galeop.sis.]

Laevigatum {lee-vl-r/ay-tiim). — Lat., Iccviyo, I smooth : being
smooth, not rough with hairs. [Takaxacum officinale,
var. Lmvifjatum.]

Lsevia (lee-vis). — Lat., Icevis, smooth. [Feankenia.J

Lagurus (lay-geiir-rus). — Gr., lagos (\ayog), a hare : oura
(oi'pa), a tail : hare’s-tail.

Lamium IJay-me-um), — Gr., laimos (\aiyog), the throat;
from the shape of the flowers.

Lamprocarpus (lam-pro-car-pus).—Gi\, lampros (Xapngog),
manifest, clear ; karpos (KapTrog), a fruit. The fruit is very
clearly seen. [JuNCDS.]

Lanatum (lay-nay-tum).~La,t., lanatus, woolly ; provided
with wool. [Cerastium alpincm, var. Lanatum.]

Lancastriense (lan-cas-tre-eii-se). — Growing only in Lanca-
shire. [Geum sanguineum, var. La?icastriense.]

Lanceolatum (lan-se-o-lay-tum). — Lat., lancea, a lance:
having lance shaped or elliptical leaves ; tapering at both
ends. [Epiloeium.]

Lantana (^an-iuy-paA).— Probably from the name of a place
on the Continent. [Vieprnum.]

Lapathifolium (ld-pd-thX-/oe-le-um). — Lat., lapathum, sorrel ;
folium, a leaf : sorrcl-leaved. [Polygonum.]

DO

Lapsana {lap-say-nah). — Of Grecian origin.

Lasiophyllum [lay-al-o-phil-lum). — Or , (Xaffior), shaggy

with wool or hair ; phullon {<pvXKov), a leaf : having woolly
leaves. [Hiekacicm.]

Lathraea {la-three-ah). — Gr., latkros {\a9por), hidden, con-
cealed ; from the humble place of growth, among dea<l
leaves.

Lathyroides — LcUhi/rus, and ides, like :

resembling a Lathyrus. [ViciA.]

Lathyrus {la-thi-riis). — From la, to add to ; and thourof, an
irritant : to increase excitement ; so named from the supposed
qualities of the seeds.

Latifolium {lay-ti-foe-le-um). — Lat., latvs, broad ; folium, a
leaf : broad-leaved. [Leuidium.]

Laureola (law-reo-lah). — Lat., laureola, a laurel crown :
spurge-laurel. [Daphne.]

Laurinia (lau-ri-ne-ah). — • Lat., laurus, a laurel : having
leaves like those of the laurel. [Salix.]

Lavatera. — Named in honour of the brothers Lavater, who
were great friends of Tournefort.

Laxa (f«a;-aA).— Lat., laxus, loose, wavy. [Poa.]

Laxiflora {lax-i-florah). — Lat., laxus, loose, wa\*y ; jlos,
Jloris, a flower : loose-flowered. [Orchis.]

Leersia. — Named after a Mr. Leers.

Lemna (leni-nah), — Probably connected with the island
Lemnos.

Lentiginosus [hn-ti-jin-osus). — Lat., lentiginosus, covered
with freckles : being cov’ered with dots, as if dusted. [Rebcs
AFFiNis, var. Lentiginosus.']

Leontodon (le-on-toe-don). — Gr., leon {Xetov), a lion; odous
(ilSovc, gen. uSouroe), a tooth ; lion s tooth, from the tooth-like
lobes of the leaves. Of. Dens leonis.

Leonurus {le-own-new-rus). — Gr., leon (Xeo>j'), a lion; 0!/iix
(ovpa), a tail : lion’s tail, from some fancied resemblance to

the plant. _ ^ »

Lepidocarpo {te-pi-doe-car-po). — Gr.,fepis (Xt-ie,gen. X£~icor), •
a husk ; karpos (Kap-oc), a seed : denoting that the seeds are
contained in a husk. [Carex flava. var. Lepidocarpo.]

51

lepidium (iS-pi-de-iim). — Gr., Ie2ns (Xekis, gen. XEn-t^of), a
scale ; from the shape of the pouches.

Leptoclados {lep-to-cld-dos). — Gr., lejjfos (XE-nrog), fine,
slender ; hlados {kXciSoq), a shoot : having slender shoots.
[Akenaria sep.pyllieolia, var. Le.ptoclados. ]

Lepturus (?e/>-<eMr-J’Ms). — Gv.,lepios (Xetttoc), slender; oura
(orpa), a tail : slender-tail, from the slender spikes.

Leucanthemum (leiu-can-the-mum).—Gr., leucos (XEvicqg)^
white ; anthemon (dvOepor), a flower : white-flowered. [Ciip.y-
SANTHEMUM.]

Leucojum (leiv-c6-jum). — Gr., leukoion (Xevkoiov), a whi'.c
violet.

Leucostachys (lew-co-stay-kit>). — Gr., leucos (XevKog), white ;
stachus {(jraxvg), a plant : being of a whitish colour. [lluBU.S. ]
Libanotis (lie-ban-nd-tis). — Gr., libavotis {Xi(3aviorig), frank-
incense. [Se.seli.] ,

Ligusticum (lie-gus ti-kum). — Named from Liguria, where
the cultivated species is so abundant.

Ligustrum [Ue-gus-trum). — Lat., Ugo, I bind ; from the use
made of the twigs.

Limnanthemum (lim-nan-the-mum). — Gr., limne (\1jup7j), a
pond ; anthemon (dvGeftov), a flower : pond-flower.

Limonium. — From the name of a city in Gaul, now called
Poidlars. [Statice.]

Limcsa (lie-mo-sah). — Lat., limosus, muddy ; denoting that
the plant grows in muddy bogs. [Carex.]

Limosella {Ue-mo-sel-lah). — Lat., Ihrius, mud ; alluding to
the place of gi’owth.

Linaria {lie-nare-re-ah). — From linum, flax, which the
leaves of some of the species resemble.

Linariifolium (lie-nare-ri-e-foe-le-um). — Linaria, and folium,
a leaf: having leaves resembling those of the Linaria. [Hy-
PEIilOUJI.]

Lindlieanus.— Named after Frof. Lindley. [RcstJ.s.]

Lingua (lin-gua). — Lat., lingua, a tongue; referring to the
shape of the leaves. [R.^xoNctrLus.]

Lingulatum (lin-gevj-lay-tum). — Lat., lingua, a tongue;
alluding to the shape of the leaves. [Hieracium.]

Liunsea. — ICamtJ after tlic great Linnaeus.

Linum (fte-»2Hm).— Celtic lin, thread ; also Latin linum, flas.

Liparis. — Named after the island Lipari.

Listera. — Probably named after a Mr. Lister.

Lithospermum (litho- spur-mum). — Or., lUhos {\i9oc), a
stone ; spsrma {awepfia), a seed ; alluding to the hardness of the
seeds.

Litigiosus {lUl-ji-osus). — Lat., litigiosus, disputed. [CAP.Drcs
CEISPUS, var. Litigiosus.

Littoralis {lit-tor-raij-lis). — Lat., littoralis, pertaining to the
sea-shore. [Cochleaeta officinalis, var. Littoralis.']

Littorella {lit-to-rel-lah). — Lat., littoralis, growing on the
sea-shore ; shore-weed.

Lloydia. — Named after a Mr. Lloyd.

Lobelia. — Named in honour of Matthias Lobel, a Flemish
botanist.

Loeselii. — Named after M. Loesel, a botanist. [Lipaeis.]

Loiseleuria. — Named probably after some botanist or place.

Lolium {lo-le-um). — The Latin for darnel.

Longifolius (loii-ji-foe-le-us) . — Lat., longus, long •, folium, a
leaf : having long leaves. [Potamogeton.]

lonicera. — Named in honour of Adam Lonicer, a German
botanist.

Lotus (lo-tus). — The Greek name for a kind of trefoil.

Lucens {lew-sens). — Lat., luceo, I shine : shining. [Pota-

MOGETON.]

Lucidum (lew-sl-clum). — Lat., Iticidiis, shining, lucid. [Gera-
nium.]

Lunaria {loo-nare-re-ah). — Lat., luna, the moon : moon-wort.
The pinniB of this fern are lunate or moon-shaped. [Botrt-
cmuM.]

Lupulina [leu-peu-lie-nah). — The diminutive of htpnlus, see
next ; so named from the similarity of the plant to the hop.

Lupulus {leu-peu-lus). — Lat., lupus, a wolf. Pliny says :
‘The hop destroys plants as the wolf destroys sheep.’ [Hc-
MGLUS. ]

Lusitanica. — Introduced from Lusitania, the western p.irt of
Spain. [PiNGUicuLA.]

53

lutea {loo tc-ah).~La,t., luteus, golden, yellow. [Viola.]

Lnteola {loo-ttio-lcih), — Lat., luttolus, of a yellowish colour.
[PiESEDA.]

Lutetiana. — Introduced from Lutetia ; Lutetia is the
ancient name for Paris. [Ro.sa canina, var. Lutetiana. ]

Luzula (leuts-su-lah). — ^^Supposed to be from the Italian
hicciola, a glow-worm, on account of the sparkling appearance
of the flowers when wet.

Lychnis (lih-nis). — Gr., litchnos ^ lamp. ‘The

thick cottony substance on the leaves of some species, or of
some similar plant, having been employed as wicks to lamps.’
— Hooker.

Lycopsis {lie-cop-sis). — Gr., luJcos (kvKog), a wolf ; opsis {oxpig),
appearance ; from some fancied resemblance between the
flower and a wolf’s head.

Lycopus {lie-cSpits). — Gr., lukos (\vKog), a wolf ; pous (ttouc),
a foot. The leaves of this species are supposed to resemble a
wolf’s foot.

lysimachia {lie-si-may-ki-ah).—Gv., lusis {Xvaig), a loosing •
mache (naxn), a fight : loosestrife.

Lythrum {lHhrum).-Gr., luthron (\v9(,ov), blood ; from the
colour of the flowers.

64

M.

Macrocepbalus [ma-cro-he-pha-lue). — Gr., mahros {fuzrf/og),
great ; kephale (KtipaXri), a head : having large heads of
flowers. [Hieeacium vulgatum, yar. ifacrocephalus.]

Macrophyllus {ma-crS-phil-lus). — Gr., makros (fuucpor),
great ; phullon (^v'XXov), a leaf : having large leaves.

[Rubtjs.] ^

Maculatum {mac-u-lay-tum). — Lat., wacwZo, I spot: speckled,
spotted. [Hypeeicom ddbit>m, var. Maculatum.']

Magna {mag-nah). — Lat., magnus, large, great. [Pijipi-

NELLA.]

Majalis {may -jay -Us). — Lat., majalis, a hog ; or probably
from majalis (of the month of May), since the CoTviallaria,
■flowers in this month.

Majns {may -jus). — Lat., majus, greater, larger, comparing
the size of two species. [Thalicteum.]

Malachium {ma-ldk-e-um).—Gr., malakos {yakaKog), feeble i
from the weak nature of the plant so named.

Malaxis {may-lax-sis).— Gt., malaxis {pgXaKig), delicate.

Mains {may-lus).—La,t, malus, an apple-tree. [Pyecs.]

Malva {mal-vah). — Gr., malake {yaXaKy), soft. The mucil-
age which these plants contain possess the property of soften-
ing substances.

Marginata {mah-ji-nay-tah). — Lat., margino, I provide
with an edge : having an edge of a different colour. [Speecu-
LAEIA.]

Marinus {md-rl-nus).—Ls,i., marinus, pertaining to the sea:
growing on sea-shores. [Ranuncolds Baudotii, var.
Marimis.]

Mariscus {mare-Tis-cus). — It is doubtful why this plant is
so called. The name is that of a large fig. [Cladium.]

Maritimum Lat., maiilimus, pertaining to

the sea : growing by' the sea. [Tuaucteum Mixes, var.
Maritimum.]

Marrubium {md-rue-hc-um). — Of doubtful etymology.

Mascula {mds-cu-lah). — Lat., inasculus, male, masculine ;

65

probably in reference to the tubers and their peculiar
virtues. [Okchis.]

Matricaria {mat-ri-care-re-ah).— This name is derived from
some supposed medicinal virtue.

Matthiola.— Named in honour of Dr, Matthiolas, an Italian
botanist.

Meconopsis {mee-co-n6p-sis).—Qr., mtkon (fujKiop), a popjjy ;
opsis (o^tg), appearance : resembling a poppy.

Medicago (mee-di-kap-go).— From a Greek word, denoting
that the plant to which the name was originally given came
from Media.

Media (wie-de-a/t).— Lat., medius, undecided, neutral : bear-
ing a resemblance to two species. [Stellabia.]

Melampyrum {mt-lam-pi-rum).—Gr., melas (piXag), black •
puros {TTvpog), wheat. The seeds of these plants, when ground
and mixed with flour, are said to turn it black.

. Melanocephalum (mUa-no-U-pM-lum).— Gr., melan {utXac
fitXavog), black ; Icepihale {KSfpaXr]), a head : having dark-

coloured flower-heads. [Hiehacium.]

Meleagris (me-le-a-gris). — rThe name of a son of King ^neas
to whom this plant was dedicated. [Feitillakia.]

Melica (mel-U-kah). — Lat., mel, honey.

Melissa (mS-lis-sah. -Gr., melissa (g^Xiacra), a bee, from the
large quantity of honey contained in the flowers

(<t>vX\ov), a leaf : having leaves like those of Mdissa. [Me-
UTTIS.] *■

Melilotus (mhll-lo-tus). — Lat., mel, honey 5 and’ lotus ;

(AtsW), a bee, from the
quantity of honey contained in the flowers
Heath.

etymology of thi, a,„,d

4—2

Mercui-ialis.— Named after the god Mercury.

Mertensia. — Named in honour of a German botaniat, M.
Mertens.

Meum {mee-um). — The Greek name for the plant.

Mezereum {med-zeer-re-um). — Hichabdson says that the
Persians call the Daphne, Tnddzaryoun, whence this name.
[Daphne.]

Microcephalum {vit-crd-l’e-pha-bim). — Gr., mikros (fiicpoc),
small ; hephale (ice^aX?;), a head ; having small heads of
flowers. [Hieeacium chrysanthemum, var. Microcephalum.]
Mitrospermum (mi-cro-sper-mnm). — Gr., mikros (fiicpog),
small ; sperma {cmppa), a seed : having small seeds. [Poly-
gonum AvicuiAEE, var. Microspennum.]

Micrantha (ml-cran-thah). — Gr., mikros {piKpog), small ;
anthos (civOog), a flower : small-flowered. [Fumabia offici-
nalis, var. Micrantha.]

Militaris (mi-li-tare-ris). — Lat., militaris, soldier-like. The
blossom of an orchis, which resembles the form of a man.
[Orchis.]

Milium [vii-le-mn). — Latin for millet, the English name of
the grass.

Millefolium (inil-U-fo-le-um). — Lat., mille, a thousand ;
folium, a leaf : thousand-leaved ; referring to the great
quantities of leaves. [Achillea.]

Millegrana (mil-li-gray-nah). — Lat., mille, a thousand;
yranum, a seed : having a great many seeds. [Radiola.]
Miniatum [mi-ni-a-tum). — Lat., miniaius, cinnabar-coloured.
[Solanum.]

Minimus (mi-ni-mus). — The superlative of the Latin parrif-*,
small : of a very minute size. [Myosurus.]

Minor (mi-nor). — Comparative of the Latin ^rr’us, small:
of a small size. [Caltha palustbis, var. Minor.]

Minus (mi-nus). — Lat., minus, less : of a smaller size, com-
p.aring the two species. [Thalictrum.]

Mitis (nii-«is).— Lat., mitis, soft with down; downy. [Pyrus
MALUS, var. iLTi^fs.]

Mixta {mix-tall). — Lat., mixfu.% blended, intermingled.
[Valeeianella dektata, var. il/ia.-flL]

57

Modestum {mo des turn). — Lat., modestus, unassuming,
modest. [Geranium Robertianum, var.

McfincMa. — Named after Prof. Moench, of Hesse-Cassel
University.

Molinia. — Named in honour of Molina, a famous Spanish
botanist.

Holies (mol-les). — Lat., mollis, soft : downy with soft hairs.
[Geranium.]

Mollugo (mol-Uu-fjo). — Etymology unknown; perhaps from
some proper name. [Galium.]

Monensis (mon-en-sis), — Found . in the Isle of • Man.
[Brassica.]

Monogyna {7no-no-gy-nah}. — Gr., monos {fiovoq), one ; gune
(yvi'ij), a female : having only one style or female organ.
[CRAT.a:GUS oxYACANTHA, var. Monogy7ia.]

Monorchis (mo7i-07--kis). — Gr., 7no7ios (povof), one; 07xhis
(opxis), a bulb : one-bulbed. [Herminium.]

Monotropa {7iio-no-t7'o-pah). — Gr., monot (fiovog), one ; ti'epo
(rpcTTo), I turn. The flowers of this plant all turn in one
direction.

Montanum {mon-tay-7iu7n). — Lat., monta7ius, pertaining to
mountains : growing in mountainous places. [Hypericum.]
Montia {mo7i-te-ah) . — Probably named in honour of some
botanist.

Monticola {mon-ti-co-lah). — Lat., 7nonticola, dwelling on
mountainous places. [Serratula tinctoria, var. Monti-
cola.]

Montpeltier (mont-pel-ti-ay), — Very likely so named in
honour of some botanist. [Polypogon.]

Morio {mor-rl-oh). — A buffoon. [Orchls.]

Moschata (mos-kay-UUi). — Having an odour of musk ; Per-
sian, musk, 7)iisk, [Malva.]

Moschatellina(wios-to-<efi-fZ-naA). — Diminutive oi7)ioschcUcc,
see last. [Adoxa.]

Morsus-ranae {mor-sus-ray-7iee). — Lat., morsus, a bit ; miia,
a frog : frog-bit. [Hydrooharis.]

Mucronatus {mew-ci'o 7iay-tus). — Lat., muci'07iatas, pointed ;
ending in a sharp point. [Potamogeton.]

53

Multicaulis (mw?4i-ca!«-Zts).— Lat., mvllm, many; eoMlin,
a stalk ; having many stems on one plant. [Scibfcs.]

Multiflora {mul-ti-Jlor-ah). — Lat., mvllm, many ; jU)», Jhrif,
a flower : having many blossoms. [Luzola.]

Muralis [mew-ray-lis). — Lat., muralis, pertaining to a wall :
growing on walls. [Lactuca.]

Muricata [mure-ri-kay-tah). — Lat., muricalus, full of sharp
points : prickly. [Cakex.]

Murinum (mew-rl-num). — Lat., muj'iM, a wall: growing on
walls. [Hordedm.]

Murorum {mew-ror-rum). — Lat., murus, a wall : growing on
w'alls. [Hieracium.]

Muscari {mits-care-rie). — Lat., muscarlus, smelling of musk.

Muscifera (mus-sci-fer-rah). — Lat., rrmsca, a fly; fe.ro, I
bear: fly-bearing. The flower of Orchis muscifera resembles
a fly.

Muscosa {mus-ko-sah), Lat., muscosus, full of moss, mossy.
[TILL.EA.]

Myosotis (my-o-so-tis). — Gr., mus {yvg), a mouse ; ous (org,
wrog), an ear : mouse-ear ; so named from the shape of the
leaves.

Myosurus (my-o-sure-rus). — Gr., mus (ftvg), a mouse ; oura
{ovpa), a tail : mouse-tail ; from the shape of the spike.

Myrica (ml-ri-kah). — The Greek name for the shrub.

Myriophyllum [my-ri-o-phil-lum). — Gr., murioi {yvpioi), ten
thousand ; phullon {<j>vXKov), a leaf : ten-thon sand-leaved ; so
called from the great number of leaves borne by these plants.

Myrrhis (mi-rhis). — Gr., murra {pvppa), myrrh ; so called
from the fragrant leaves.

Myrtillus [mur-til-lus). — Lat., myrtuin, myrtle. ac-

CINIUM.]

50

N.

Nanus {nay-nus). — Lat., nanm, a dwarf ; dwarfed. [Ulex.]

Napellus {nay-pel-lus). — Etymology doubtful. [Aconitum.]

Narcissus {nar-cis-sus). — Named after a fabulous youth,
Narcissus, who is said to have been changed into this flower.

Nardus (nar-dus.) — The Latin name for the plant.

Narthecium (nar-the-ce-um). — Gr., narthex (vap9i]^), a rod,
to which our British species bears but slight resemblance.

Nasturtium (nay-stur-she-um). — Lat., nasus, a nose ; tortus,
contorted. This plant has most pungent properties, which
causes one to make a grimace when tasting it.

Natans (nay-tans). — Lat., nato, I float: floating. [Pota-

MOGETON.]

Neglecta (n^-glec-tah). — Lat., neglectus, neglected, slighted.
[Stellaria media, var. Neglecta.)

Nemoralis (ne-mo-ray-lis). — Lat., nemoralis, growing in
groves or woods. [PoA.]

Nemorosa (ne-mS-roesah)., — Lat., nemorosus, growing in
woods. [Anemone.]

Nemorum (ne-mS-rum). — Lat., nemiis, a wood : growing in
woods. [Stellaria.]

Neottia (ne-ot-tl-ah). — Gr., neottia (veorria), a nest of young
birds ; bird’s-nest orchis, so called from the shape of the
roots.

Neottinea (ne-ot-tie-ne-ah). — Diminutive of neottia; see
above.

Nepeta (nt-pee-tah). — After Nepet, a town in Tuscany.

Nephrodium (nl-ph.ro -de-um). — Gr., nephron (i/£0por), the
kidney ; from the kidney-shaped indusia on the pinnse.

Nidus avis (nigh-dus-d-vis). — Lat., nidus, a nest; avis, a
bird : bird’s-nest orchis, so called from the shape of the roots.
[Neottia.]

Nigra (nigh-grah). — Lat., niger, black. [Helleborus.]

Nigrescens (nigh-gres-scens). — Lat., nigresco, I become
black. [Cerastium latifolium, var. Nigrescens.)

GO

Nissolia. — Named in honour of a botanist of the name of
Nissoli. [Latiiyrus.]

Nitens {nigh-tens), — Lat., nileo, I ehiue : shining. [Pota-
MOGETON.]

Nitidulum {nigh-tl-dew-lum). — Lat., nitidus, shining. [PiCBCH
SYLVESTRis, var. Nitidulum.)

Nivalis {nigh-vay-lis). — I;at., nivalis, growing in the snow.
[Sagina.]

Nobilis [no-hi-lis). — Lat., nohilis, well known, easily distin-
guished. [Antheihs.]

Nodiflorum {no-dl-Jldrum). — Lat., nodu«, a knot ; Jlos, jloru,
a flower : knotted-flowered. [Helosciadum.]

Nodosa {no-doe-sah). — Lat., nodosus, knotted. [Sagisa.]
Norvegica {nor-vee-ji-cah). — Norwegian. [Aeenaeia.]
Nudicaulis {new-di-cor-lis). — Lat., nudus, naked ; caulis, a
stalk : naked-stalked. [Teesdalia.]

Nummularia {num-mew-lair-re-ah). — Lat., nummularius,
pertaining to money : moneywort. [Lysimachia.]

Nuphar {new-phar). — Of Grecian origin.

Nutans {new-tans). — Lat., mdo, I nod, nodding : having
pendulous flowers. [Silene.]

Nympheea {nim-phce-ah). — This plant grows in places where
nymphs were supposed to live, whence the name.

Nymphaeoides {nim-phoe-oidees). — Nympheea^ and kits, like :
resembling the Nympheea. [Limxakthejigm.]

Cl

O.

Obliquus {o-lll-qu-iis).—ljat., ohiiquns, oblique : having un-
equal sides. [Rubus Koehlekia, var. Obliquus.]

Obovata {ob-6-vay-tah).—Lai., ob, inversely; ovalus, egg-
shaped : inversely egg-shaped, obovate. [Droseba anglica,
var. Obovata.]

Obscurum {ob-scure-rum). — Lat., obscurus, dark, obscure.
[Epilobium.]

Obtusifolium (ob-teu-si-fo-le-um). — Lat., obtusus, bluut,
rounded ; /oZiwm, a leaf: having rounded leaves. [Hieea-
CIUM.]

Occidentalis (ok-si-den-tay-lis). — Lat., occidens, the west:
growing in western countries. [Rosa involuta, var. 'Occi-
dentalis.]

Ochroleucum {oh-croio-lew-cum). — Lat., oclira, ochre; Gr,,
leukos (\svkoq), white : being of a pale ochre colour. [Tri-
folium.]

Octopetala [ohtoe-p^-ta-lah). — Gr., oeio(oKrw), eight; petalon
(mvaXov), a petal : having eight petals. [Dryas.]

Odontites (3-don-tie-tees). — Gr., odous (odovg, oSovrog), a
tooth : toothed, dentate. [Bartsia.]

Odorata (o-dor-ray-tah). — Lat., odoratus, scented : having a
sweet smell. [Viola.]

(Enanthe (ee-nan-thee). — Gr., oinos (o"vog), wine; antlios
(dvOog), a flower. The flowers of this species have a scent
like that of wine.

(Enothera (ee-no-thee-rah). — Gr., oinos (oivog), vfine ; therao
(9rjpab>), I catch : catching a flavour of wine.

Officinalis (of-fl-ci-nay-lis). — Lat., officinalis, offlcinal: kept
in shops. [Fumaeia.]

Oleifolia (6-U-3-fo-le-ah). — I^at., oleum, oil ; folium, a leaf :
having oily leaves. [Salix cineeea, var. Oleifolia.]

Oleracea (3-13-ray-ce-ah). — From Latino fMs(oZm's), a pot-herb.
[Beassica.]

Olidum (3-li-dum). — Lat., olidus, smelling : having a fetid
smell [CiiENOPODiUM.]

^ Olitoria {ol-lit-tor-re-ah). — Lat., olitorius, pertaining to a
garden : growing among vegetables. [Valeeiaxella.]
Olusatrum {S-lew-sa-trum). — Lat., olus, a pot-herb ; cUer,
black. The seeds of this plant are quite black. [Smyexicm.]
Onobrychis (on-o-bri-Jcis). — Gr., onos (ovog), an ass ; brucho
{/ipvxfti), I bray. The smell of this plant is supposed to excite
braying.

Ononis {on-o-nis). — Gr., onos {uvog), an ass. This animal is
fond of these plants as food.

Onopordium [on-o-pov-dium). — Gr., onos {vvog), an ass; porde
{iropSi]), the Crepitus ventris.

Opaca (o-pay-lcah). — Lat., opacus, dark : being of a dark
colour. [Rosa stvlosa, var. Opaca.l
Ophioglossifolius [6-pM-o-glo-si-fo-le-us). — Gr., ophios.{6<ptog),
a snake ; glossa (yXuaua), a tongue ; Lat., folium, a leaf :
having leaves shaped like a snake’s tongue. [RASxrxcuLtrs.]
Ophioglossum [b-phl-o-glo-sum). — Gr., opliios [oipiog), a snake ;
glossa {yXoaaa), a tongue : adder’s tongue.

Ophrys (opli-ris). — Gr., ophrus [d^pig], the eyebrows ; in
reference to the fringed sepals.

Oppositifolius {op-pu-si-tifo-le-us). — Lat., oppositus, opposite;
folium, a leaf : opposite-leaved. [Chkysoplexium.]

Opulus {op-peu-lus). — Probably derived from the name of
a town on the Continent. Cf. Lantana. [ViBtJEXiJii.]
Orbiculare [pr-bic-q-lair-ree). — Lat., orbiculus, a little ball :
having the flowers arranged in a circular head. [Phyi^uma.]
Orchis {or-kis). — Gr., orchis {bpxig), a testicle. These
plants have testicular-shaped roots.

Oreopteris Ip-re-op-te-ris). — Gr., oros (opog), a mountain ;
piteris {Trrkpig), a fern. The mountain fern is found in hilly
places. [Nephrodium.]

Origanum [S-rl-gd-num). — Gr., oros {opog), a mountain ;
ganos {yavog), joy : mountain-joy ; so named from the favour-
ite situation of the family.

Ornithogalum (or-ni-tho-gd-lum), — Gr., omis {opvig, gen.
vpviOog), a bird ; gala [yaXd), milk. Lixx.s;us had an idea
that this plant was the ‘ dove’s dung ’ mentioned in 2 Kings
vi. 25.

C3

Ornithopioides {or-nl-tho-pi-oides). — Ornithopun, and ideff,
like : resembling the plant called Ornithopus. [Trigonella.]
Omitbopus {or-ni-tho-pus). — Gr., 07'nis {upvig, gen. opviQog),
a bird ; pous (ttovq), a foot : bird’s foot, to which the seed-
vessels bear a remarkable resemblance.

Orohanche (5-7'o-ban-kee). — Gr., orobos (6po[3og), vetch ; audio
(di'xw), I strangle. These plants grow injuriously as parasites
on other plants, the vetch included.

Orobus (o-7-o-bus). — Gr., oi'obos (opo/3oc), vetch.

Orontium {o-ron-tl-um). — Introduced from the Orontes, the
chief river of Syria. [Antirrhinum.]

Oryzoides [{fi-ryd-zoi-dees). — Oryza, and ides, like : resem-
bling the Oryza (rice). [Leersia.]

Osmunda [os-mun-dah). — Probably so named after ‘ Osmund
the waterman’ of Celtic tradition, as this fern delights in
watery places.

Ossifragum {Ss-si-frd-gum). — Lat., ossifraga, bone-breaking.
This plant is supposed to possess the power of softening the
bones of the cattle feeding on it. [Narthecium.]

Ovalis (o-vay-lis). — Lat., ovalis, egg-shaped : oval. [Carex.]
Ovata (o-vay-tah). — Lat., ovatus, egg-shaped : having ovate
leaves. [Listera.]

Ovina (t}-vi-nah). — Lat., ovis, a sheep : sheep’s-fescue.
[Festuca.]

Oxalis {ox-d-lis). — Gr., oxus {uKvg), sharp, acid. The leaves
of this species have a very sharp taste.

Oxyacantha {ox-e d-can-thah). — Gr., oxus {b%vg), sharp, acid ;
ahantha {uKavOa), a thorn : having sharp thorns. [Crataegus.]
Oxyptera {ox-ip-te-7-ah). — Gr., oxus (o^vg), pointed ; pteron
(iTTepov) figuratively, a leaf : having pointed leaves. [Poly-
gala.]

Oxyria {oxy-ri-ah). — Gr., oxus (6?uc), sharp. The stem and
leaves of this plant have a very sharp or acid taste.

Oxytropis (oxy-trupis). — Gr., oxus (b^vg), pointed; tropis
{rpoTTig), a keel ; having a sharp, pointed keel.

Cl

p.

Padus {pay-dus). — Named after the river Padus (the Po),
ill Italy. [Prunus.]

Paganum (pay-gay-num). — Lat., paganm, pertaioing to a
village ; growing near habitations. [CHEKOPomcii alecm,
var. Paganum. ~\

Paleaceum {pd-le-a-ce-tim). — Lat., palea, chaff : covered
with chafify scales. [Eqdisetrm hyemale, var. Paleaceum.]
Pallescens (pal-les-cens). — Lat., pallesco, I become pale:
growing pale. [Caeex.]

Pallidiflora {pal-U-dl-Jlor-rah). — Lat., pallidus, pale ; fio>,
floris, a flower : having pale-coloured flowers. [FuifARiA.]
Pallidus (pal-li-dus). — Lat., pallidus, pale : of a pale colour.
[Rubus Koehleri, var. Pallidus.]

Paludosum (jyd-leu-doe-sum). — Lat., paludosus, marshy,

= growing in marshy places. [Sexecio.]

Palustris {pa-lus-tris). — Lat., paluslris, marshy : growing in
marshy places. [Carduus.]

Panicea (pay-m-see-ah). — Lat., panicum, a kind of grass.
[Carex.]

Paniculata {pay -nik-qday -tali). — ~Ls.t., panicula, a panicle :
having a branched raceme. [Carex.]

Papaver (pop-pay-mA).— ‘Named because it is administered
with pap (papa in Celtic) to induce sleep.’ — Sir W. J. Hooker.

Paralias {pd-rd-li-as). — Gr., paralia {TrapaXia), the sea-
coast : growing on the sea-coast. [Euphorbi^.]

Parietaria {parry-e-tare-re-ah). — Lat., paries, a wall,
denoting the usual place of growth.

Parietariifolia {parry-^-tare-ri-i-fo-le-ali). — Parietaria, and
Lat. folium, a leaf : having leaves like those of the Parie-
taria. [Mentha arvensis, var. Parietariifolia.]

Paris (pa-ris). — Lat., par, equal; probably so called from
the number of the leaves being nearly always four, and from
the regularity of the appendages of the flower-cup. Speci-
mens are very often found with five or seven leaves.

Parnassia (par-nas-se-ah). — This plant is named after the
Mount Parnassus, where it is said to have first sprung up.

Parvifloms {par-vi-flo-vus). — Lat. , parvus, small ; Jlos, jtoris,
a flo\9'er : having small flowers. [Ranunculus.]

Pavvulus (par-vU-lus). — Lat., parvulus, small, petty. [Ra-
nunculus HiRSUTUS, var. Parvulus. I

Pastinaca (pas-Vl-nay-Tcah), — Lat., pastus, pasture, where
this plant is usually found growing.

Patula {pat-u-lah). — Lat., patulus, extended, spreading.

[Campanula.]

Pauciflora {paw-ci-flor-rah). — Lat., paucus, few ; Jlos, Jloris,
a flower : having few flowers. [Carex.]

Pecten-veneris (pek-teen-vee-ni-ris). — Lat., pecten, a comb ;
Veneris, of Venus ; Venus’ comb, so called from the resem-
blance of the mature seed-vessels to the teeth of a comb.
[SCANDIX.]

Pectinatum (pek-tl-nay-tum). — Lat,, pecten, a comb : pin-
natifid, having narrow segments like the teeth of a comb.
[Myriophyllum verticillatum, var. Pectinatum.']

Pedicularis (pe-dik-q-lair-ris). — So called from the name
of the disease to which sheep feeding on these plants are
subject.

Pedunoulata (p^-clun-q-lay-tah). — Lat., pes, pedis, a foot j
having a stalk or peduncle. [Callitriche hamulata, var,
Pedunculata.]

Peltatus (pel-tay-tus).— Lat, pelta, a target, from the shape
of the leaves, which are round, and have the petiole attached
in the centre. [Ranunculus.]

Pendula {pen-dU-lah). — Lat., pendeo, I hang : hanging down,
pendulous. [Carex.]

Penicillatus {pee-ni-cil-lay-tus). — Lat., penicillum, a painter's
brush : having borders of pencil-like hairs. [Ranunculus
PELTATUS, var. Penicillatus.]

Pentandrum (pen-tan-drum). — Gr., pente (irevrs), five ;
aner (uvijp), a man : having five stamens or male parts of a
flower. [Cerastium triviale, var. Pentrandrum.}

Peplis (pep-lis). — Of Grecian etymology ; the name was,
however, originally given to another plant.

Peploides (pep-loi-dees). — Peplis, and ides, like : resembling
the Pejilis. [Honkeneya.]

CO

Peplus Perhaps from the Greek jjfploH '-mrXoc)

a curtain, robe. [Euphorbia.]

Peregrina (pen-y-j/j-j-Ka/t). — ha.i., peregrime, foreign, exotic
[Rubia.]

Perennis {pe-ren-nis).—L?A., pa-ennh, lasting for several
years : perpetual, perennial. [Meecurialis.]

Perfoliata (per-fo-li-a-tali). — Lat., per, through ; folium, a
leaf. The stems of these plants appear as if they went
through the middle of the leaves. [Chlora.]

Perforatum (per/or-my-i-um).— Lat., perforo, I perforate :
perforated ; so called from the pellucid dots on the leaves.
[Hypericum.]

Periclymenum [perry-cll-men-um).~GT., pen (rtpc), in
composition, very; Eumenos [KXvpevog), famous: very Ulus-
trious. [Lonicera.]

Permixta (per-mix-tah). — Lat., permixtua, confused.
[Viola.]

Perpusillus { per-pu-sil-lus).— La.t, perpuaillus, very smalL
[Orxithopus.]

Persicaria (pei'-sicJc-care-re-ah).—Lnt., persicum, a peach:
peach-leaved. The peach is so caUed from growing on the
Persian tree [Persica arhcr). [Polygoxum.]

Petraea (pe-iree-aA).— Lat. petra, a rock, crag : growing on
rocks. [Hutchinsia.]

Petasites {pe-ta-sigh-tees) . — Gr., petasos {Treraaog), a covering
for the head ; so called from the very largp size of the leaves.
[Tussilago.]

Petroselinum {p'S-ir5-se-lie-num).—Gr., petra (-erpa), a rock ;
selinon (crsXivov), parsley : rock-parsley.

Peucedanum {pew-se-da-num).—GT.,peul-edanos{-evKtSai’oc),
keen, piercing, though it is difficult to trace the reason why
these plants are so named.

Phegopteris (phee-gop-te-ris). — Gr., phegos {(pgyog), beech ;
pteris {n TEpu ), a, fevn : beech-fern. [Polypodium.]

Phellandrium (phel-lan-dre-um). — Gv., phellos {<ptX\og),
cork ; aner (dvijp, avdpog), a male : having corky stamens.
[OUnanthe.]

Phleum {,phlec-um). — Etymology doubtful.

C7

Phragmites {phmg-ml-tees).— Gr., phragma {(ppaypa), a
shutting-up, fencing. This reed has been used for thatching
and fences.

Phylicifolia {phi-li-si-fo-le-ah). — Phyllis, an almond; Lat.
folium, a leaf : having leaves like those of the almond. [Salix.]

Physospermum {phi-so-sper-mum). — Gr., plivsao ((pvaaio), I
blow out ; sperma ((TTrEppa), a seed. The seeds of this plant
resemble small, blown-out bladders.

Phyteuma (phl-teu-mah). — Gx\, phuton{<pvTov), a plant.

Picrides (pik-rl-dis). — From Picris, the plant on which
Orobanche picridis grows parasitically.

Picris (pik-ris). — Gi\, pikros (rrtKpos), bitter ; referring to the
taste.

Pilosa {pi-ld-sah). — Lat., pilosus, hairy. [Luzula.]

Pilulare (pill-u-lair-ree). — Lat., pihda, a little globule :
having small globular heads of flowers. [Gnaphalidm
ULIGINOSUM, var. Pilulare.^

Pilularia (pill-u-lair-re-ah). — Lat., a little globule;

referring to the pill-like involucres.

Pilulifera (pnll-u-li-J'tr-rah). — Lat., pilula, a little globule ;
fero, I bear : pill-bearing, referring to the pill-like fruits.
[C.AEEX.]

Pimpinella {pim-pie-nel-lah). — Of uncertain etj'mology.

Pimpinelloides (pim-pie-nel-loi-dees). — Pimpinella, and ides,
like : resembling the Pimpinella. [CEnanthe.]

Pinguicula (pin-gwik-q-lah). — Lat., pinguis, fat; from the
greasy feeling of the leaves.

Finnatifida (pin-ndt-tl-fi-dah). — Lat., pinna, a feather ; .
Mi, I cleft : having leaves divided into segments like a
feather. [Pyrus.]

Pinus (pie-nus). — The Latin name for the tree.

Piperita (pi-pe-ri-tah). — Lat., piper, pepper ; referring to
the peppery taste of the leaves. [Mentha.]

Plantago (plan-tay-gd). — The etymology of this word is un-
known.

Platycarpon (pla-U-kar-pon). — Gr., plains {nXarvg), broad ;
karpoa (Kapiroi;), a fruit : bearing broad fruits. [Callitricue
STAGNAUs, var. Plalycarpon.]

Platyphylla {pJd-ti-phil-Iah). — Gr., plalun (TrXaruf), broad;
2>fnillon {^vXKov), a leaf : broad-leaved. [Euphorbia.]

Plicatus (ply-lcay-tm). — Lat., plica, a plait ; plaited in folds
like a fan. [Rosa. ]

Pneumonanthe (pneu - moan - an ■ Ihee), — Gr., pneumon
{nvEvpojv), a lung ; anlhos (avQoc), a flower : lung-flower ;
but whether this plant is efficacious in lung disease, or
whether it means wind-flower, is doubtfuL [Gentiaka.]

Poa (po-ah). — Gr., poa (noa), grass.

Podagraria {pod-ah-yrarc-rc-ali). — Gr., podagra (rodaypa),
the gout, for which complaint a concoction of this plant was
used formerly as a remedy. [CEgopoditjm.]

Polemoniuni (pol-K-moe-ne-um).) — Gr., poUmoa (ttoXs/xoc),
war. Pliny tells us that the discovery of this flower led to
warfare.

Polifolium {pol-li-fo-le-um). — Gr., polios {ttoXioq), white ;
Lat., /oZiitn!, a leaf : white-leaved. [Helianthemum.]

Polita (po - lie - tah). — Lat., politus, polished, shining.
[Veronica.]

Polyanthemos (pol-li-an-the-mos). — Gr., polus (to\vq), many;
anthemon (avOepov), a flower : bearing many flowers. [Car-
Duus CRispus, var. Polyanthemos.'^

Polycarpon (pol-li-Jcar-pon). — Gr., polus (n-oXvg), many ;
harpos {Kapnog), a fruit : having many carpels to each flower.

Polygala {pol-li-gdl-lah). — Gr., polus {n-oXvg), much; gala
(yaXa), milk. The juice of these plants is very milky.

ToljgonB,tum{pol-li-go-nay.tum). — Gr., polus {noXvg), many;
gone (yovg), a joint. The stems of these plants are very
angular.

Polygonifolius [pol-lt-gd-ni-fo-le-us). — Polygonum, and Lat.
folium, a leaf : having leaves resembling those of Polygonum.
[POTAMOGETON.]

Polygonum (pol-U-go-num). — Gr., p>olus {-oXvg), many;
go7ie [yovi]), a joint. The stems of these plants are very much
jointed.

Polypodium {po-li-j)0-de-um). — Gr., polus (iroXvg), many;
pous {TTovg, TTodog), a foot ; referring to the many foot-like
partitions of the caudex.

69

Polypogon (pol-ll-po-gdn). — Gr., polvs (ttoXvq), much ; pogon
{Tuay(i)v), a beard ; referring to the numerous awns.

Polyspermum (pol-li-sper-immi). — Gr., polus (ttoXvq), many ;
spei’ma {aireppa), a seed : bearing many seeds. [Cheko-
PODIUM.]

Polyrhiza (pol-li-rliide-zah). — Gr., polus {iroXvq), many;
rhiza (pi^a), a root : having many roots to one plant. [Lemna.]

Populus (po-pu-lus). — The Latin name for the tree.

Portlandica (port-lan-dik-kah). — From Portland, where this
plant grows. [Euphorbia.]

Portula {por-teu-lah), — Probably named after some place.
[Peplis.]

Portulacoides (por-teu-lak-oi-dees). — Portula; and ides,
like : resembling the plant called Portulaca. [Chenopodium. ]

Potamogeton (pot-am-o-jee-ton). — Gr., potamos {irorapoq), a.
river ; geiton (yeirair), a neighbour ; pond-weed, water-neigh-
bour.

Potentilla [p5-ten4il-lah). — Lat., potens, powerful; from
the potent medicinal properties supposed to reside in some
of the species.

Poterium (pS-teer-re-um). — Gr. , poterio7i (jrorgpiou), a, wine-
cup. This plant was formerly much used in the preparation
of cool-tankard.

Freecox (pree-cox). — Lat., prcecox, ripening early in the year.
[Mentha arvensis, var, Prcrcoa;.]

Praelongus (pree-lon-gus). — Lat., prcelongus, very long ;
being of a lengthy size. [Potamogeton.]

Pratensis (pray-ten-sis). — LaX., pratim, a meadow : growing
in fields. [Cardamine.]

Primula (prim-u-lah).—La.‘i., primus, first ; denoting the
early period of flowering.

Procumbens {pro-cum-hens). — Lat. > procumhens, bending
downwards, lying flat on the ground. [Sagina.]

Prolifer (pr6-lt-fer).—La.t., proles, a race; fero, I bear:
bearing a great many seeds. [Dianthus.]

Propinqua {pro-pin-quah). — Lat., propinquus, near, similar:
resembling another species. [Salix phylicifolia var.
Propinqua.]

5

70

Prostratum {jyron-tray-tum), — Lafc., proBlratus, spread out
on the ground : prostrate. [Geraxium sakccikeum, \ar.
Prostraknn.]

Fruiuosa (jvu-i-no-sah). — Lat. , 7>ruina, rime, frost: appear-
ing as if covered with frost. .[^OSA caxina, var. Pruinom.]
Prunella [jjvu-nel-lcih). — TTrom the German hrdune, meaning
quinsy. This plant was formerly used to cure this coca*
plaint.

Prunus (pn(-n«s).— Gr., proune (Ttpowt}), a plum.

Fsamma {p-sam-mah). — Gr., psammos (-^aiipoc), sand. This
grass is found growing on maritime sands.

° Pseudo (psew-do).— This word is used in compounds, meauing
false, and implies that the plant bearing the name is similar to
quite a different species ; e.g.. Iris pmidacorus, false reed :
appearing to be a reed, though not so in reality ; decei^^ng.

Ptarmica (ptah-mi-hah).—Gr.,ptarmis (v-appic), a sneeze.
The leaves of this plant were formerly pounded and used as
snuff, whence the specific na<he. [Achillea.] • ^ _

Pteris (pte-risy.—Gi\, pte7>is (-n-TCfiti), a fern, which is derived
from Gr. ptero?i {nnpov), a feather, from the resemblance of a
frond of a fern to a feather.

Puhescens {peu-hess-cens).—lja.t., puhesco, I become hairy .

downy. [Ceeastium alpinum, var. Pitiescens.]

Pulchella (pul-kel-Iah).—Lat., pulchella, a beautiful little
thing ; small and beautiful. [Erythr.RA.]

Pulchrum (pul-chruin).—!^^.^, •pulcher, beautiful. [Hyperi-
cum.] , . ,

Pulegium (peM-lee-gi-t/m). — Lat., pulrgium, penny-royal;

the English name for the plant. [Mextha.]

Pulicaria (peu-li-care-re.-ali)! — Lat., pulex, a flea. e
smell of this plant was supposed to drive .aw.ay fleas. [Inula.]
Pulmonaria (pul-’ind-nair-re-ah), — Lat., a lungi \\bicii

the spotted leaves were thought to resemble. , t •

Pulsatilla (pid-sni-«i7-?a/i).— Perhaps diminutive of Latin
puls, a sort of pottage, made of pulse, used at sacrifices, etc.

[Anemone.] j i.

Pulverulenta [pid-f?-rK-fe)i-<a^).-Lat., pnlvcrulmtus, dusty:
covered with a dusty powder. [Rosa supium, var. Pulvcnilaiia.]

71

Pumila (pm-mi-lah), — L:it., immilus, dwarfish, minute.
[N DPHAR.]

Punctata (punk-tay-tah). — Lat., punctatus, pointed : dotted.
[Saxifeaga gmbrosa, vai-. Punctata.']

Purpurascens {per-pure-rass-cem). — Lat., I

grow purple : growing to a purplish colour. [Sebum Tele-
I’HiUM, var. Purpurascens.]

Purpureum (jier-pure-re-um). — Lat., purpureus, purple ;
being of a purple colour. [Geranium Robeetianum, var.
Purpureum.]

Pusillum (peu-sj7-fwm). — Ij&t., pusillus, small: of a minute
size. [Geranium.]

Pygmaeus [pig-me-us). — Lat., the tribe of pigmie.'i,

a fabulous race of very dwarfish people ; very small in size.
[Rubus.]

Pyramidialis (pie-ra ml-day-Us). — Gr., imramis (TrupapiQ), a
pyramid : pyramid-shaped. [Orchis.]

Pyrenaicum (jH-ren-nay-i-htm.) — Introduced from the
Pyrennees : Pyrenean. [Geranium.]

Pyrola {pie-roe-lah). — Diminutive of Latin pyrus, a pear :
a little pear, from the resemblance between the leaves of the
two species.

Pyrus (pie-rus). — Lat., pyrus, a pear.

Q-

Quadrifolius (guad-ri-fo-le<-us). — quatuor, four : folium,
a leaf : having four leaves. [Paris.]

Quercus (guer-cus).— Celtic, qu^ , fine; ciicz, a tree; a
handsome tree.

6-2

72

R.

Racemosum (r&-cce-moe-sum). — Lat., racemus, a bnncli ;
having the flowers ai-ranged in a raceme. [Muscael]

Radians {ray-di-ans). — Lat., radio, I gleam: radiant, shining.
[Eanpnculus diveksifolius, var. Radians.^

Radicans {ray-dl-hans). — Lat., radix, a root : springing up
from the root. [Caltha.]

Radicata {ray-dl-lcay-tah. — See Radicans.

Radiola {ray-di-o-lali). — ‘Named from Lat. radius, a ray;
I presume in consequence of the ray-like segments of the
calyx.’ — Sir W. J. Hooker.

Ramosum {ray-moe-surri). — Lat., ramosus, having branches :
branched. [Sfaeganixjm.]

. Ranunculoides {ray-nuii-cu-loi-dees). — Ranunculus, and ides,
like : resembling the Ranunculus. [Alisma.]

Ranunculus {ray-nun-q-lus). — Lat., rana, a frog ; so named
from the places in which these plants grow being frequently
the habitat of frogs.

Raphanus [ray-phd-nus). — The Greek name for radish.
Rapunculoides (ray-pun-cu-loi-dees). — Rapuncvlus and
ides, like ; resembling the species called Rapunculus. [Casi-
PANTJLA.]

Rapunculus {ray-pun-cu-lus). — Diminutive of Lat. rapum, a
turnip. [Campanula.]

Rariflora {I'are-ri-fior-rah). — Lat,, iwua, loose ;/fos, floris,
a flower : loose-flowered. [Carex.]

Reclinata (ree-cli-nay-tah). — Lat., reclino, I bend back:
reclined. [Ononis,]

Regalis {ree-yay-lis). — Lat., regalis, royal, regal ; alluding
to the stateliness pertaining to this species. [O.ssiunda.]
Remota (re-mo-tah). — Lat., retnoius, distant; referring to
the distance of the spikelets from each other. [Carex.]
Reniformis {ree-nl-for-mis). — Lat., re?r, the kidney ; forma,
a shape : having kidney-shaped leaves. [Oxtria.]

Repens (rec -pens).— Lat., repcns, creeping. [Rancnctlu.s.]

73

Eeptans Lat., replo, I creep: creeping. [Poten-

TILLA.]

Beseda {r^-see-dah). — Lat., resedo, I calm. These plants
were formerly thought to possess potent sedative qualities.

Beticulata {ri-tih-u-lay-tah). — Lat., reticulatus, made like a
net : having the appearance of a net. [Salix.]

Bhamuoides (pham-noi-dees). — Rhamnus, and ides, like :
resembling the Rhamnus. [Hippophae.]

Bhamnus {rham-nus), — Gr., rhamnos (payvoQ), a branch ;
also the name of a town in Attica.

Bhinanthus (rkUnan-thus). — Gr., rhis {pig), a nose ; anihos
{av9og), a flower : nose*flower, from the resemblance of the
blossom to a nose.

Bhceas (rhee-as). — Gr., rhoia (poia), the pomegranate ; but
why so called is doubtful. [Papavee.]

Bhynchospora (rhine-co-spor-rah). — Gr’., rhunchos ipvyxog), a
snout, beak ; spora (atropa), a seed. The nuts of this grass
taper into a two-cleft style.

Bihes (rie-bees), — This name was originally given to a species
of rhubarb ; it is an Arabic word.

Bigidum (ri-yj-cfMm). — La.t., rigidus, stiff: inflexible. [Hiera-
CIUM.]

Biparia {rie-pair-re-ah), — Lat., ripa, a stream, river : grow-
ing on river sides. [Caeex.]

Bivale (rie-vay-le). — Lat., rivalis, pertaining to a river ;
growing on the sides of ponds and rivers. [Geum.]

Bivularis {rie-vu-lair-ris}. — Lat., rivulus, a brook : growing
by the side of streams. [Montia fontana, var. Rivularis.]
Bobertianum. — Named after St. Robert, a Benedictine
abbot ; the time of flowering for this plant is about April 29,
which day is dedicated to this abbot. [Geranium.]

Bobur (roe-bur.) — Lat., robur, hardness. This name has
also been given to the oak, on account of the hardness and
durability of the wood. [Quercus.]

Bosa (roe-sali). — The Latin name for the plant, which is
borrowed from the Greek rhodoii (poSov), a rose.

Boaaceus (roe-zay-ce-us). — Lat., rosaceus (roseus), rose-
coloured. [llUBUS.]

74

Eosmarinifolia {rose-ma-rl-nt-fo-le-ah). — Lat., romarinvf,
rosemary ; folium, a leaf having leaves resembling those of
the rosemary. [Salix.]

Eostellata {rSs-tel-lay-tah). — Lat,, rostdlum, a little beak :
having an elongated neck ; referring to the seeds, which are
raised on pedicels. [Ruppia.]

Eotondata [ru-tun-day-tah). — Lat., rotunda, I make round :
rounded. [Bartsia odontites, var. Jiolundaia.]

Rotundifolia {rS-tun-difo-Ie-ah). — Lat., rotundue, round ;
folium, a leaf : having round leaves. [Pyeola.]

Euhella {ru-'bel-lah).—'Lo.‘t., ruMlus, reddish : being of a
reddish tint. [Alsina.]

Eubescens {ni-hess-cens). — Lat., ruhesco, I become red :
growing to a red colour. [Hieeaciusi vulgatuSI, var.
Ruhescens.']

Eubia {rue-U-ah).—Ldc,., ruher, red. A red dye is extracted
from some of the species bearing this name.

Eubiginosa (rue-bi-ji-noe-sah). — Lat., rubiginosus, rusty •
being of a reddish tint. [Rosa.]

Eufescens {ruefess-cens). — Lat., rufesco, I grow red : grow-
ing to a rufous colour. [Potamogeton.]

Eugosa (rue-go-sah). — Lat., rugosus, wrinkled : rough.
[Salix peerdginea, var. i?«^osa.]

Eumex [rue-mex).—The Latin name for these plants.
Eupestris {rue-pes-tris), — Lat., rupes, a rock : growing on
rocks. [Draba.]

Eupicola [rue-pl-co-lali). — Lat., rupts, a rock ; colo, I in-
habit : dwelling on rocks. [Ptrus.]

Euppia (rup-pe-ah). — Named after a celebrated botanist,
Mr. Ruppius, who lived in the eighteenth century,

Euscus (rws-cus). — ‘Name, anciently bruscus, from beus-
kelem, in Celtic, box-holly.’— Sir W. J. Hooker. In Italian
this plant is brusco ; in French, brusc.

Euta-muraria (rue-tah-7netc-rare-re-ah). — Lat., ruia, rue ;
mw’us, a wall ; wall-rue. [Aspleniuii.]

75

S.

Sagina (sd-jie-nah).—L2it., sacjinm, fattening; so named
because they possess nourishing qualities for sheep.

Sagittaria {sd-ji-tare-re-ah). — Lat., sagitta, an arrow ; refer-
ring to the sagittate or arrow-shaped leaves.

Sagittifolia {sd-jit-ti-/o-le-ah).^La,t, sagitta, an arrow ;
folium, a leaf : having arrow-shaped leaves. [Sagitta.]

Salicaria (say-ll-care-re-ah). — Lat., salix, a willow; from
the resemblance of the leaves of the two plants. [Lythrum.]

Salicornia (sal-li-kor-ne-ah). — Lat., sal, salt ; cornu, a horn.
These plants possess horn-shaped branches, and are found
growing in salt marshes, whence the name.

Saligna (sa-%-?!aA).— Lat., salignus, willow-wood : willow.
[Lactuca.]

Salix (sd-Zix).— Celtic, sal, near ; Us, water ; from the place
of growth.

Salsola (sal-so-lah). — Lat., sal, salt ; solus, alone ; from the
salt marshes in which the plant grows.

Salvia {sal-ve-ah).—ha.t., salveo, I am well. These plants
were formerly thought to possess potent healing properties.

Sambucus [sa7n-beu-kus). — Gr., sambuke (aafijSvKi]), a wind
instrument. In former times this plant was used for making
musical instruments.

Samolus (say-mo-lus). — Named after the Isle of Samos,
where the plant was first discovered, by Valerand, in the six-
teenth century.

Sanguineum {san-gwin-e-wn). — Lat., sanguineus, consisting
of blood : blood-coloured. [Geranium.]

Sanguisorba (san-giois-sor-bah). — Lat., sanguis, blood ;
sorbeo, I staunch ; from the staunching virtues belonging to
the plant.

Sanicula [say-nik-cu-lah). — Lat., sano, I heal; from the
supposed healing properties belonging to the plants.

Sapanaria {say-po-nare-re-ah). — Lat., sapo, soap. A soapy
fluid is found in the stem of this plant.

Sarolhamnus {sair-ro-tha^n-nus). — Gr., saros {aapog), a

76

besom, broom ; thamnon (ffn/ivoc), a bush. This plant is very
extensively used in making brooms.

Sativa {sa-tk-vah). — Lat., salum, a pasture. [Okobey-
CHIS.]

Saussurea. — Named after the Saussures, two brothers, who
were eminent botanists.

Saxatile {sax-d-ti-lee). — Lat., saxalilis, growing among
stones. [Galium.]

Saxifraga {sax-i-frd-gah). — Lat., saxum, a stone ; frango, I
break : stone-breaking, pushing up through stones.

Scahiosa (sca-bi-oh-sah). — Lat., scahies, leprosy. Some of the
plants in this tribe were formerly supposed to possess remedies
for this disease.

Scahrum (scd-hrum). — Lat., scaber, rough ; having a rough
surface. [Teifolium.]

Scandix {scan-dix). — The Greek name for chervil.

Sceleratus (sede-ray-tus). — Lat., sceferatus, bad, impious. The
juice of the plants so named is very poisonous, and used by
impostors to raise ulcers, so as to obtain money. [Rasux-
CULUS. ]

Scheuchzeria. — Named after M. Scheuchzer, .a German
botanist.

Schoenoprasum {slcee-no-pray-sum). — Gr., schoinos (ffyotvof),
rush ; prason (irpaaov), a leek : rush-leek. [Allium.]

Scilla (sil-lah). — The Greek name for the squill.

Scirpus (skur-pus). — The Latin name for a rush.

Scleranthus {sdee-ran-thus). — Gr., skleros {cKXgpog), hard ;
anthos {dvOog), a flower ; referring to the hard cal3'X.

Scrophularia (scropheu-lair-re-ah). — From scrophula, for
which disease the plant was formerly thought a remedy.

Scolopendrium (sco-lS-pen-dre-mn). — From scolopendra, a
genus of myriapods. The fructification of these plants is
thought to resemble the feet of these insects.

Scoparius (sco-pah’-re-us). — Lat., scojya, a besom : used for
making brooms. [Saeothamxus.]

Scorodonia (scS-roe-doe-nc-ah). — Gr., shorodon {oKopoSov),
garlic. [SCKOPHULAEIA.]

Scorodoprasuni {skO- roe -doe -pray -sum). — Gr.. skorodon

77

{(TKopoSov), garlic ; prason (irpaaov), a leek : garlic-leek.

[Allidm.]

Scoticum (sco-^e-fem). — Scotch; growing in Scotland.' [Li-
crrsTicuM.]

Scutellaria (sl'eu-tel-lair-re-ah). — Lat., scutella, a little enp.
The calyx of the flower of this plant resembles a small cup.

Scutellata (slceu- tel -lay -tali). — Lat., scutella, a salver,
waiter : salver-shaped. [Veronica.] ,

Secunda (st-hun-dah). — Lat., secundus, second : next in
value. [Ptrola.]

Sedoides (se-doi-dees). — Sedum, and ides, like : resembling
the Sedum. [Cherleria.]

Sedum (se-dum). — Lat., sedeo, I sit, denoting the humble
growth of these plants.

Segetum (se-jS-tum). — Lat., seges, corn: growing among
the corn. [Petroselinum.]

Selaginella {se-lay ji-nel-lah). — Diminutive of Selago.

Selago {s6-lay-go). — Gr., selageo (treXa-yew), I shine. These
plants were much thought of in olden times, and held
sacred.

Semidecandrum {see-ml-de-lcan-drum). — Lat., semi, half;
Gr., deha [dsKa), ten ; aner (avijp, gen. avSpog), a man : having
five stamens or male parts of a flowei-. [Cerastiitm.]

Senebiera. — Named after M. Senebier, a botanist of Genoa.

Senecio {s&-nee-cl-oh). — Lat., senex, an old man; referring to
the grey down of the seed.

Senescens {sS-nes-scens). — Lat., senesco, I grow hoary : being
of a whitish colour. [Hieracirm.]

Sepium (see-pe-um). — Lat., genitive plural of sepes, a hedge :
[ViCIA.]

Septangulare [sep-tan-geio-lair-ree) . — Lat., septem, seven ;
angulus, an angle : possessing a stem with seven angles.
[Eriocaulon.]

Septentrionale (sep-ten-trt-oh-nay-lee). — Lat., septentrionalis,
northern : growing in the north. [Asplenium.]

Serotina (se-ro-ti nah). — From Latin sero, I scatter, probably
because the plants so named are widely scattered. [Lloydia.]

Berpyllifolia {sur-pil-li-fo-le-ah). — Serpyllum, and Latin

78

folium, a leaf : having leaves resembling those of HtrjAjUum.
[Arenaria. ]

Serpyllum {ser-pil-lum). — The Latin name for wild thyme.
[Thymus.]

Serrata {ser-7'ay-lah) . — Lat., serralus, saw-shaped: having
toothed leaves. [Saxifraga umbrosa, var. Serrata.]

Serratula (sei'-ray-feu-lah). — Lat., aerrula, a little saw ;
referring to the very finely serrated leaves.

Seseli (sg-se-fie). — Lat., seselis, the hartwort plant.

Sessiliflora (sess-si-ll-flor-rah). — Lat., sessilis, sitting ; fof,
foris, a flower : having flowers with no pedicels. [Qcebccs
ROBUB, var. Sessilijlora.]

Setaceus {see-tay-sea-us). — Lat., seta, a bristle. The subulate
points of the outer bracts of the flower of this plant nre con-
tinued above the flower, appearing like a stiflf bristle.
[SCIRPUS.]

Setaria [see-tai'e-re-ah). — Lat., seta, a bristle. The sjjike-
lets of the flower are intermixed with long bristles.

Sherardia. — Named after James Sherard, a famous English
botanist.

Sibbaldia. — Named in honour of Robert Sibbald, a Scotch
naturalist, who lived in the sixteenth century.

Sibthorpia. — Named after Dr. Sibthorp, for some time Pro-
fessor of Botany at Oxford University.

Siifolium isigh-l-fo-le-um). — Sium, and Latin folium, a leaf :
having leaves resembling those of the Sium. [Nasturttum
OFFICINALE, var. Siifolium.]

Silaus [sigh-lay-us). — This Avas the name the Romans gave
to some allied species.

Silene {sigh-lee-nee). — Gr., sialon {<na\ov), saliva ; from the
secretion on the leaves.

Simia {sigh-me-ah). — Lat., simia, an ape ; from the resem-
blance of the flower to this animal. [Orchis.]

Simplex {sim-plex). — Lat., shnplex, simple ; referring to the
simple inflorescence. [Sparganium.]

Sinapis {si-nay-pis). — Gr., sinepi {mvgm), mustard.

Sinuata Lat., sinuo, 1 curve i curved, bent

[Ma'ithiola.]

79

Sison (sigh-son). — The Greek name for some allied species.

Sisymbrium (si-sim-hre-iim). — The Greek name for the plant.

Slum (sigh-urn). — ‘Name, according to Tiieis, from tho
Celtic word siw, meaning water.’ — Sir J. W. IIookek. The
plants grow in avet places.

Smyrnium (smur-ne-um). — Gr., smurna (aixvpva), myrrh.
The scent of some of the species so called resembles that of
the myrrh.

Solanum (so-lay-num). — From solor, to soothe, calm.

Soldanella (sol-dan-nel-lah). — Probably derived from the
name of some foreign place. [Convolvulus.]

Solidago (so-li-day-go). — Lat., solido, I unite. Potent heal-
ing qualities were formerly ascribed to these plants.

Sonchus (son-keiis). — A Greek word for the sow-thistle.
[SoNCHUS OLEBACEUS Or MaEITIMUS. ]

Sophia (so-phi-ah). — From a proper name. [Sisymbrium.]

Sordida (sor-did-dah). — Lat., sordidus, sordid, squalid.
[Ehynchospoea alba, var. Sordida.]

Sparganifolius (spahgd-ni-fo-h-us). — Sparganium, and
Latin folium, a leaf : having leaves like those of the Spar-
ganium. [POTAMOGETON.]

Sparganium (spah-gd-ne-um). — Gr,, sparganon (cnapyavov),
a swathing band ; from the ribbon-like leaves.

Spathulata (spath-u-lay-tah). — Lat., spathula, a spoon:
bearing spoon-shaped or spathulate leaves. [Salix ambigua,
var. Spalhidata.]

Specularia (spek-q-lair-re-ah). — Lat., spscidum, a mirror.
The seeds of this plant are very bright and shining.

Spergula (spur-gew-lah). — Lat., spargo, I scatter. The
species of this genus are widely diffused over the world.

Spergularia (spur-gew-lair-re-ah). — From Spsrgida, to which
genus this one bears a strong resemblance.

Sphserocarpum (sphere-ru-kar-pmm). — Gr., sphaira (a<paipa),
a sphere ; karpos (icapwog), a fruit ; having sxiherical fruits.
[Tualictrum elavum, var. Splicer ocarpiim.]

Sphaerocephalum (sphere -7-0- so -phu-lurn). — Gr., sphaira
(iripaipa), a sphere ; kephale (iceipaXy), a head : having a
s^dierical head of llovvcrs. [Allium.]

80

SphsBrica (sphee-rt-l-ah). — Gr., spihairihos {u^aipiKoc), like a
ball ; spherical. [Rosa caxina, var. Uphcerica.]

Sphondylius {sphon-die-le-m). — Gr., gphondule {a^ovcvXt]), a
vertebra, but I cannot say why the plant is so called
[Heracleum.]

Spicata {spi-Jcaij-tah). —L&t., spica, ahead, tuft. The flowers
of this plant are arranged in a spike. [Act.EA. ]

Spinosa, {spi-nd-sah). — Lat., spinosus, full of thorns ; prickl}'.
[Ononis.]

Spiraea {spi-ree-ah,)-' — Gr., speira {aTmpa), a wreath : used in
making up garljinds.

Spu:a,li»[apl-ray-lis). — Lat., spiro, I twist; referring to the
spiral arrangement of the flowers. [Euppia.]

Spiranthes (sj5i-5'a9i-i^ees). — Lat., spira, a coil ; from the
twisted arrangement of the flowers.

Spuria (speu-re-ah).—'La,t, spurius, spurious ; a bastard.
[Linaeia.]

Squamaria {squay-mare-re-ah), — Lat.j^ squama, a scale;
referring to the scaly roots. [Lathr.«a.]

Stachys (stack-hiss).— Gr., stachos (oraxo?), a bunch ; so
named from the flowers being arranged in a bunch.

Stagnina (stag-nigh-nah). — Lat., stagnum, a fen, swamp ;
denoting the usual place of growth. [Viola.]

Statice (sta-ti-ce). — Gr., statizo (orartSw), I stop ; denoting
the supposed medicinal properties.

Stellaria (stell-lair-re-ah). — Lat., stella, a star, which the
flowers of these plants when in full expansion resemble.

Stellaris (stell-lah'-ris). — Lat., stella, a star : starlike. [Saxi-
fkaga.]

Stellulata (stell-u-lay-tah). — Lat., stella, a star : starlike.
[Carex.]

Sterilis Lat., sterilis, barren : unfruitful. [Bf.o-

MUa.J V x T

Stolonifera (sto-ld-nl-ft-rali). — Lat., stolo, a shoot ; jcro, 1
bear ; shoot (stolon) bearing. [Ageostis alba, var. Staloni/era.]
Stratiotes (slratlS-oh-tces).—Gr., stratiotes (ffrpurtwrjjc). a
soldier. This plant bears a strong resemblance to a soldier
standing in a sentry-box.

81

Striatum Lat., striatus, channelled : furrowed,

striate. [Teifolium. ]

Stricta (siri/t-iaA).— Lat., stnctus, close : drawn together,
dense. [Auabis.]

Strigosum {stri-go-sum). — Lab., sirigosus, meagre, poor.
[Papaveb Rh.eas, var. Strigosum.']

Stylosa (sti-Zo-saA).— Lat., stylus, a column : having numer-
ous pistils. [Rosa.]

Suaeda (swee-dah). — Name from sued, soda, in which these
plants grow extensively.

Sub, in composition, means near to, almost; e.g., sub-
globosa, almost globose. . ' ‘

Suberosa (seu-bS-roe-sah). — Lat.,s2«6e>’,coi’k : corky. [Alnus.]
Subterraneum (sub-ter-ray-ne-im). — Lat., sub, under; terra,
the ground : growing underground. [Teifolium.]

Subularia (sue-bu-lair-re-ah). — Lat., subida, an awl ; from
the awl-shaped leaves.

Subulata (sue-bii-lay-tah). — Lat,, an awl: awl-shaped.

[Sagina.]

Succisa (sucJc-sigh-sali). — Lat., succisus, cut off, cut abruptly ;
referring to the end of the root, which looks as if it had been
bitten off. [Scabiosa.]

Suffocatum (suff-foe-Lay-tum). — Lat., suffoco, I choke, suffo>
cated ; from the fact that this plant is fret^ueutly found
entirely buried in sand. [Teifolium.]

Supinum {su-pie-num), — Lat., supinus, reclined, lying down :
prostrate. [Gnaphalium.]

Surculosa (sur-q-lb-sah). — Lat., surculus, a shoot : branched.
[Rosa canina, var. Surculosa.]

Sylvatica (sill-vdt-i-kah). — Lat., silva, a wood : growing in
woods. [Caedamine.]

Sylvestris {siU-ves-tris). — Lat., syZpa, a wood: growing in
woods. [Beassica eapa, var. Sylvestris.]

Symphytum (sim-phi-tum). — Gr., sumphuo {avyiltvLo), I unite ;
so named from the healing properties belonging to the plants.

Systyla (sis-tie-lali). — From the Latin, meaning close-styled ;
having the styles united into a prominent column. [Rosa
STYLOSA, var. Syst7jla.]

82

T.

Tabernaemontani {tay-her-nee-mon tay-nah). — Named after
Table Mountain, where this plant abounds. [Ri’Irpc.s.]
Tamarix (tu-ma-rix). — Named after the Tamarisci, a tril.-e
of people living on the banks of the Tambra, in Spain, where
the plant abounds.

Tamus {tay-mus). — The Latin name for the plant.
Tanacetum (ian-a-see-tum). — Altered from the Greek athan-
aton (aQavarov), eternal : everlasting.

Taraxacum [td-rax-ac-kum). — Gr., iaraxis (rapa|ic), a tumult ;
tarasso (Tapaaau)), to move the bowels ; from the purgative
properties.

Taraxacifolia (td-rax-say-si-fo-le-ah). — Taraxacum, and
Latin folium, a leaf : having leaves resembling those of
Taraxacum. [Crepis.]

Taxus (tax-us). — The Latin name for the tree.

Teesdalia. — Named after Mr. Teesdale, a well-known
English botanist.

Temulentum {iee-meu-len-tum). — Lat., temulentus, intoxi-
cated, An intoxicating drink is made from the plants so
named, [Loliijm.]

Tenella {t^-nel-lah). — Lat., ienellus, delicate. [Axagaeus.]
Tenuifolia (ten-u-efo-le-ah). — Lat., tenuis, narrow ;
a leaf ; narrow-leaved. [Diplotaxis.]

Tenuis {ten-u-is). — Lat., tenuis, narrow, slender. [Lotus.]
Terrestre {f&-res-tree), — Lat., terrestris, pertaining to the
land ; growing on land. [Polygoxum amphibium, var.
Terrestre.']

Tetragonum [tet-ray-go-mim). — Gr., tetra (rcrpa), four; gonos
(yojpof), a joint, an angle : having four joints. [Epilobioi.]
Tetrahit (te-tray-it). — I have been unable to trace this
meaning of this name. [Galeopsis.]

Tetralix {te-tray-Ux). — Gr., tetra (rs-pa), four ; helix
a whirl. The plants so named have whorls of four leaves.
[Erica.]

Tetrandrum {te-ti'an-clnivi). — Gr., tessa7'£s {rtaaapec), four ;

S3

aner (avi)p, gen. avSpog), a man : possessing four stamens or
male parts of a flower. [Cera5Tium.]

Tetraphyllum (te-tray-phil-lum). — Gr., tessares {redcrapBi;),
four; pJmllon {(pvWov), a leaf : bearing four leaves. [Polycabpon.]
Tetrapterum (te-trap-te-rum). — Gr., tetra {rerpa), four;
j)teron (jrrepov), a wing ; possessing four M’ings. [Hyi'ERTCUM.]
Tetrasperma {te-trd-spur-mah). — Gr., tetm (rerpa), four ;
8p>erma (antppa), a seed : bearing four seeds. [ViciA. ]

Teuerium (teu-cre-um). — Named in honoui’ of Teucer, who
is said to have been the first to discover the medicinal
virtues of these plants.

Thalictrum (thd-lik-trum). — Said to be from the Greek
(hallo (QaWti)), I flourish.

Thapsus (thap-sus). — Gr., thapsos (9a\pog)i a plant used for
dyeing yellow. [Verba.scum.]

Thelypteris (thee-lip-tS-ris). — Gr., ihehis ■{9r}Xvg), fruitful;
pteron (Trrepov), a fern : fertile fern. [Nepiibodidm.]

Thesium (theesi-uin). — The etymology of this word is
unknown.

Thlaspi (thlass-pie). — Gr., thlao (OXaoj), I flatten ; from the
shape of the fruit.

Thymus (tie-mus). — The Latin name for this flower.

Tilia (tie-le-ah). — I fancy that this tree was so named after
some great friend^of Linnseus.

Tillsea. — Named after M. Tilli, a well-known Italian
botanist.

Tinctoria (tink-ior-re-ah). — Lat., tinctum, dyed, coloured.
This plant is used for dyeing yarn yellow. [Genista.]

Tcfieldia. — Named in honour of Mr. Tofield, an English
botanist.

Tomentosa (toe-men-toe-sah). — Lat. , tomentum, down : downy.
[Rosa.]

Torilis (tor-rl-lis). — The etymology of this word is unknown.
Tormentilla (tor-men-till-uh). — Lat., tormina, dysentery,
for which complaint this plant was formerly thought a
remedy. [Potentilla.]

Torminalis (tor-min-nay-lis). — Lat., tormina, dysenter}'-, for
which illness this tree was thought to be a remedy. [Pyrus. ]

84

Trachelium {tra-lce-le-um). — This name in possibly from
the Greek trachelia (rpaxii^a), gristle, on account of the
roughness of the plant. [Campanula.]

Tragopogon {Ira-go-po-gon). — Gr., tra/joa (rpayoQ), a goat ;
‘pogon (TTdjyojp), a beard : goat’s-beard.

Translucens (irans-loo-sens). — Lat., transluceo, I am trans-
parent. [Chaka.]

Triangularis (trt-an-gew-lair-ris).—'L&t., triangulus, having
three angles ; referring to the triangular shape of the leaves,
[Atriplex.] . •

Trichoides (irich-koi-dees). — Gr., ihrix (6piK, gen. rpixog),
hair ; ides, like : resembling hair. [Potamogeton.]

Trichomanes (trick-o-ma-nees). — Gr., thrix (Qpi%, gen. rpixog),
hair ; manos {pavog), soft ; from the fine,hairlike stems.

Triohonema {trick-oh-nee-mah). — Gr., thrix (Bpi^, gen. rpixog),
hair; nema (vijpa), a thread: hair-thread; referring to the
very fine leaves.

Triehophyllus {trick-o-phil-lus). — Gr.ithrix (9pil, gen. -pixog),
hair; pihidlon ((pvXKov), a leaf : hair-leaved; referring to the
fine leaves. [Ranunculus.]

Tricolor {tri-cu-lor). — Lat., tres, three ; color, colour : being
of three colours. [Viola.]

Tridactylites (tn-dak-tll-lie-tees). — Gr., tris (rpig), three ;
daktule (daKrvXg), a finger : three-fingered ; having three-
cleft leaves, [Saxifraga,]

Tridentatum (tri-den-tay-tum). — Lat., tres, three ; dental us,
toothed : having three teeth. [Hieracium.]

Trientalis {trl-en-tay-lis).—La.t., triens, one-third ; from the
lowly growth.

Trifidus {trl-fi-dus). — Lat., tres, three ; fidiis, cleft : three-
cleft. [Juncus.]

Trifolium (trl-fo-le-tim).—Ls.t., tres, three ; folium, a leaf :
three-leaved. Each leaf of the plants in this genus consists of
three leaflets.

Triglochin (tri-gl6-kin). —Gr., tris (rptf), three ; glochk
(yXeiXiQ), a point : having three points ; referring to the points
of the capsules.

Triglumis {tri-gloo-7nis). — Lat., tres, three ; gluma, chaff :
having three scales or glumes. [JuNCUS,]

85

Trigonella (tri-go-nel-lah). — Gr., tris (rpie), three; gonos
(yovoe), an angle : three-angled. ; from the shape of the corolla.

Trigynum (<n-(jfie-KMm).— Gr., tris (rpte), three ; gune (yvvn),
a woman ; having three pistils or female parts of a’ flower.
tCEKASTIOM.]

Trinervis (tri-ner-vis). — Lat., tree, three ; nervus, a nerve.
Three nerve-like veins may be seen in each leaf of this plant.
[Abenakia.]

Triodia {tri-oh-de-ah).—GiT., tris (rpie), three ; odous(bdovQ),
a tooth ; from the three minute teeth at the summit of the
flowering glumes.

Tripartita (tri-pah-tie-tah). — Lat., tres, three ; partitas,
divided : three-cleft ; referring to the leaves, which have
three segments. [Bidens.]

Tripolium, — Introduced from Tripoli, where the plant is
abundant. [Aster.]

Triqueter (tri-qu'6-ter). — Lat., triquetrus, three-cornered :
bearing reference to the triangular stem. [Scirpus.]

Triaulca (tri-sul-kali). — Lat., trisulcus, three-furrowed.
Lemna trisidca has usually three fronds on a stem, one old
frond and two young ones growing out from either side.

Triticum (tri-ti-kum). — Lat., triticum, wheat.

Triviale {trl-vi-d-lee). — Lat., trivialis, common : found
everywhere. [Cerastium.]

Trollius (trolede-us). — From an ancient German word mean-
ing globe, referring to the form of the corolla.

Truncatus (trun-kay-tus). — Lat., trunco, I cut off : abruptly
terminated. [Ranunculus peltatus, var. Truncatus.]

Tuberosus (teu-M-roe-sus). — Lat., hiber, a term for a root :
bearing tubers. [Orobus.]

Tulipa (teu-liqMh). — Pers., tolibban, a, turban; from the
shape of the flower.

Tunbridgense (tun-bridge-jen-scc). — Named after Tunbridge
Wells, where this plant grows abundantly. [Hymenophyllum.]

Turritis (tu-ri-tis). — Lat., turris, a tower; so named probably
from the towering form of the plant.

Tussilago {tus-si-lay-go). — Lat., tussis, a cough, for which
a decoction of this plant is frequently used as a remedy.

Typha (tie-qjhah). — Gr,, tuphos {rvipog), a marsh, where these
plants grow.

86

U.

TIlex (2/ezo-Zea;).— Probably from the Celtic ec, a prickle.
Uliginosum {yew-lie-ji-no-sum). — Lat., vUgo, gen. uliginis,
mbisture : recjuiring a moist soil. [Gxaphaliusl]

Ulmaria (ul-mare-re-ah). — Lat., ulmus, elm; from the
fancied resemblance. [Spie.ea.]

Ulinifolium (iil-ml-fo-le-um). — Ulmus, and Latin yb?iawi, a
leaf : having leaves resembling those of the Ulmus. [ficBUS
CiESius, var. Ulmi/olius.]

Ulmus (ul-mus).— The Latin name for the tree.

Umhellatum {umbell- lay -turn). — Lat., umbella, a little
shadow : having the flowers arranged in the shape of a sun-
shade. [Holosteum.]

Umbilicus (um-hi-lie-kus). — Lat., umbilicus, the centre. The
leaves of this plant are attached to the pedicels at the centre.
[Cotyledon.]

Umbrosa [umbro-sali). — Lat., umbrosus, shady. The leaves
are placed on the ground, <iuite covering it, in a rosette.
[Saxifbaga.]

Unedo (?Hi-g-doe).— Lat., unus, one; edo, I eat ; one I eat,
meaning that if you taste one of the fruits, you are not
likely to eat another, because of the very disagreeable taste.
[Akbutos.]

Uniflora (yeu-ni-Jlor-rah). — Lat., unus, one ; flos, a flower .
bearing only one flower. [Pyrola.]

Uniglumis {yeu-ni-gloo-mis). — Lat., unus, one ; gluma, a
glume : having only one glume. [Scirpds.]

Urbanum [ur-bay-num). — Lat., urbanus, belonging to a city,

polite, choice. [Gedm.]

Urhicum [ur-by-kum). — Lat., urbiciis, pertaining to a town :
growing near habitations, [Chenopodidyi,]

Urens (yew-rens). — Lat., uro, I burn : having a hot, burning

taste. [Lobelia.]

Ursinum {ur-sigk-num). — Lat., ursus, a bear : bear-garlic.
[Allium.]

87

Urtica {iir-tie-kah). — Lat., wro, I burn ; referring to the
stinging properties possessed by these plants.

Ustulati (us-teu-lay-ti). — Lat., ustulatus, burnt : having a
hot, burning taste. [Orchis].

TJtricularia (yeu4ri-q-lair-rii-ah).—'LsA,., utriculus, a little
bladder. These plants possess small bladders growing among
the leaves.

Uva-ursa (u-vah-ur-sah). — Lat., uva, a grape, berry; ursus,
a bear ; bear-berry. [Arctostaphylos.]

88

V.

Vacciniifolia {vahal-nl-l-fo-U-ah). — Vaccinium, and Latin
folium, a leaf : having leaves resembling those of the Vac-
cinium. [Salix aebuscula, var. Vacciniifolia.]

Vaccinium {vak-si-nt-um). — The etymology of this name is
unknown.

Vagans {vay-gans). — Lat., vago, I wander, ramble ; spread-
ing. [Erica.]

Vaginatum (vay-ji-nay-tum). — Lat., vagina, a sheath :
having a sheath enclosing the stem. [Eriophoecsi.]

Valerandi. — Named in honour of Mr. Valerandus, a botanist,
who lived in the sixteenth century ; who first found this
plant in the island of Samos. [Samoltj.s.]

Valeriana (vay-lecr-rl-d-nali). — Lat., valeo, I am powerful.
These plants have potent medicinal qualities.

Valerianella [vay-leer-ri-a-nel-lah). — Liminutive of Valeri-
ana, little Valerian.

Verbascum [ver-has-cum). — Lat., barba, a beard; from the
hairy leaves possessed by some of the species.

Verbena {ver-bee-nah). — The Latin name for the plant.

Verna (ver-nali).—La,t., vermis, pertaining to the' spring :
flowering in the spring. [Gentiana.]

Veronica (vc-rb-ni-kah). — Dedicated to St. ^ eronica, a saint
of the Romish Church.

Verrucosa {v^r-rue-ko-sah), — Lat., verrucosus, full of warts :
covered with wart-like excrescences. [Betdla alba, var.
Verrucosa.]

Vesca (vess-kah).— Lat., vescus, eatable. [Fe-^gaeia.]
Vesicaria (vee-si-care-re-ah). — Lat., vesica, a bladder ; refer-
ring to the inflated fruits. [Caeex.]

Vespertiua {vess-per-tie-nah). — Lat., vesperlinus, pertaining
to evening : flowering in the evening. [Lychnis.]

Vicia Lat., vicia, vetch, literally twiner; refer-.

ring to the tendrils.

Viburnum (vie-bur-num), — Lat., vieo, I tie ; from the use
mafle of the shoots.

89

Villicaulis {vil-ll-cau-lis). — Lat., villiis, shaggy ; caulis, a
stem : having a hairy stem. | Ritbus.]

Villosa {vU-ld-sah).—Lnt., villosus, hairy, shaggy. [Populus^
TEEMULA, var. Villosa. '\

Viminalis {vi-mi-nay-lis). — Lat., vbnen, an osier. [Salix.]
Vinca (wi-itaA).— Lat., vincio, I bind; from the cord-like

Vineale (vl-ne-a-lee). — Lat., vinea, a vineyard ; growing in
vineyards. [Allium.]

Viola (vie-o-lah).— The Latin name for the species.^

Violaceus (vl-o-lay-ce-iis). — Lat., violaceus, violet in colour.
[Epipactis.]

Virens (vie-rens). — Lat., vireo, I am green : green in colour.
[THLA.SPI ALPESTEE, var. Virens.]

Virescens (i)ie-m-ce?is).— Lat., •rimco, I grow green : grow-
ing to be, green in colour. [Sebum Fosteeianum, var.
Virescens.]

Virgatum (ver-gay-tum). — Lat., virgatihs, full of twigs :
twiggy. [Veebascum.]

Viridis (w-j-i-dis).— Lat., viridis, green : green in colour.
[Habenaeia. ]

Virosa (vi-ro-sah), — Lat., virosus, stinking : having a fetid
odour. [CicuTA.]

Viscosus (vis-cd-sus). — Lat., viscosus, viscid : covered with
viscid fluid. [Senecio.]

Viscum (vis-cum), — The Latin name for the plant.

Viviparum {vi-vi-pa-rum), — Lat., vivus, alive ; pario, I
produce : producing young plants and no seeds. [Polygonum.]
Vulgaris {vul-gare-ris). — Lat., vulgaris, common, usual.
[Aquibegia.]

Vulneraria (vul-ner-rare-re-ah). — Lat., vulnus, a wound.
Perhaps this plant is so called from the yellow flowers being
spotted with a blood-red colour. [Anthyllls.]

Vulpina (vul-pie-nah). — Lat., vulpes, a fox : fox-sedge.
[Caeex.]

90

W.

Wahlenbergia.— Named after Dr. Wahlenberg.

"Wolffia. — Named in honour of Mr. Wolff.

Woodsia.— Named in honour of Mr. J. Woods, author of a
‘ Book of English Roses ’ and of the ‘ Tourist’s Flor.a.’

z.

Zannichella. — Named after M. Zannichello, a Venetian
botanist.

Zostera {zo-siee-rah). — Gr., zoster (l^ojartjp), a girdle ; from
the resemblance of the leaves to that article,

Zosterifolius {zo-stee-ri-fo-le-us). — Zostera, and Latin
a leaf : having leaves resembling those of the Zostera.

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