Meaning: Resembling Dacrydium, (from the Greek dakrydion, a small tear; referring to the resin exuded from the plant)
Latin Pronunciation: dak-ry-dee-OY-deez
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dak-rid-ee-OY-deez

Meaning: Finger bearing
Latin Pronunciation: dak-ty-LIF-er-uh

Meaning: Finger bearing
Latin Pronunciation: dak-ty-LIF-er-um

Latin Pronunciation: dalc-til-/if-er-us
Meaning: finger bearing, finger-like.

dactyloid (alt. dactylose)

Finger-like.

Meaning: From the Greek dactylos (finger); referring to the finger-like shape of the inflorescence
Latin Pronunciation: DAK-ty-lis

Meaning: From the Greek dactylos (finger)
Latin Pronunciation: DAK-ty-lon

Meaning: Finger-like roots
Latin Pronunciation: dak-ty-loh-RY-zuh

Meaning: From the Greek daimon (evil spirit) and rhops (shrub), referring to the stems, which climb by means of sharp, recurved hooks
Latin Pronunciation: dee-MO-no-rops
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dee-MON-oh-rahps

Meaning: Of or from Daghestan, Southern Russia
Latin Pronunciation: dag-est-ahn

Meaning: Of or from Dahuria, Siberia
Latin Pronunciation: da-HYUR-ih-kum

Latin Pronunciation: da-hew-rik-us
Meaning: of Dahuria (eastern Siberia).

Meaning: Of or from Dahuria, Siberia
Latin Pronunciation: da-HYUR-ih-kuh

Meaning: Named for Monsieur and Madame Daigremont
Latin Pronunciation: day-ee-gree-mon-tee-AH-nuh

Meaning: Named for Monsieur and Madame Daigremont
Latin Pronunciation: day-ee-gree-mon-tee-AH-num

dale

A vale or valley.

Meaning: Named for Samuel Dale, 17th century English physician, botanist, and author
Latin Pronunciation: DAY-lee-uh

Meaning: Of or from Dalecarlia (or Dalarna), a province in Sweden
Latin Pronunciation: dal-le-KAR-lee-kuh

Meaning: Of or from Dalecarlia (or Dalarna), a province in Sweden
Latin Pronunciation: dal-le-KAR-lee-kum

Meaning: Of or from Dalecarlia (or Dalarna), a province in Sweden
Latin Pronunciation: dal-le-KAR-lee-kus

Meaning: Named for Lady Dalhousie, first Marquess of Dalhousie
Latin Pronunciation: dal-HOO-zee-ay

Meaning: Named for Jacques Dal?champs, 16th century French physician and botanist at Lyon
Latin Pronunciation: dal-ay-SHOM-ee-uh

Meaning: Of or from Dalmatia on the Adriatic side of the Balkan Peninsula
Latin Pronunciation: dal-MAT-ih-kum

Meaning: Of or from Dali (ancient city in China)
Latin Pronunciation: dal-ee-EN-sis

Latin Pronunciation: dal-mat-ik-us
Meaning: of Dalmatia (the Adriatic).

Meaning: Of or from Dalmatia on the Adriatic side of the Balkan Peninsula
Latin Pronunciation: dal-MAT-ih-kuh

Meaning: Of or from Damascus
Latin Pronunciation: dam-ASK-ee-nuh

Meaning: Of or from Damascus
Latin Pronunciation: dam-ASK-ee-num

Latin Pronunciation: darn-ass-see-nus
Meaning: of Damascus (Syria).

Meaning: A classical Greek name
Latin Pronunciation: dam-uh-SO-nee-um

Meaning: Named for Carl Lebrecht Udo Dammer, 20th century German botanist at the Botanical Museum in Berlin-Dahlem
Latin Pronunciation: DAM-mer-ee

Meaning: Named for William Dampier, 18th century buccaneer who collected Australian plants which are still preserved in the British Museum at Oxford
Latin Pronunciation: dam-pee-ER-uh

Meaning: Named for William Dampier, 18th century buccaneer who collected Australian plants which are still preserved in the British Museum at Oxford
Latin Pronunciation: dam-pee-ER-ee

damping off (alt. dampen off)

Collapse of small seedlings due to fungi attacking stem at soil level.

Meaning: Named for Dana?, the mythological Greek daughter of the King of Argon
Latin Pronunciation: dan-AY-ee-uh

Meaning: Having leaves like Danae (named for the mythological Greek daughter of the King of Argon)
Latin Pronunciation: dan-ay-ee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having leaves like Danae (named for the mythological Greek daughter of the King of Argon)
Latin Pronunciation: dan-ay-ee-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Having leaves like Danae (named for the mythological Greek daughter of the King of Argon)
Latin Pronunciation: dan-ay-ee-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Named for Mrs. G. Danford, 19th century British explorer
Latin Pronunciation: dan-FORD-ee-ay

Meaning: Named for William Freeman Daniell, 19th century British army surgeon
Latin Pronunciation: dan-ee-EL-ee-eye

Meaning: Named after ?tienne Danthoine, 19th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: dan-THWON-ee-uh

Meaning: Diminutive form of Daphne (laurel genus, named for a nymph of Greek mythology)
Latin Pronunciation: daf-nee-OH-la

Meaning: Resembling Daphne, the genus named for a nymph of Greek mythology. According to legend, she was transformed into a Laurel to escape Apollo
Latin Pronunciation: daf-nee-OY-deez

dark reaction

Those chemical reactions in photosynthesis not requiring the presence of light and involving the reduction of carbon dioxide to form sugar. See also: Calvin cycle.

Meaning: Named for Dr. Mardy Darian, American botanist who discovered the species in Madagascar
Latin Pronunciation: dar-ee-AN-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Karl Darmer, 19th century horticulturist in Berlin
Latin Pronunciation: DAR-mer-uh

Meaning: Named for Dr. Erasmus Darwin, 18th century physician, scientist, and grandfather to Charles Darwin
Latin Pronunciation: dar-WIN-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for Dr. George McMillan Darrow, 19th century American authority on small fruits
Latin Pronunciation: dar-ROW-ee-eye

Meaning: Lots of spines, thick spines
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-uh-KAN-tha

Meaning: Named for Charles Darwin, evolutionist
Latin Pronunciation: dar-WIN-ee-eye

Meaning: Lots of spines, thick spines
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-uh-KAN-thus

Meaning: Lots of spines, thick spines
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-uh-KAN-thum

Meaning: Hairy flower
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-AN-tha

Meaning: Hairy flower
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-AN-thum

Meaning: Hairy flower
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-AN-thus

Meaning: Hairy calyx
Latin Pronunciation: das-ee-KAL-iks

Meaning: Hairy fruit
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-KAR-puh

Meaning: Hairy fruit
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-KAR-pum

Latin Pronunciation: das-ik-karp-us
Meaning: thick- fruited.

Meaning: Shaggy-branched
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-KLAD-uh

Meaning: Shaggy-branched
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-KLAD-um

Meaning: Shaggy-branched
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-KLAD-us

Meaning: Resembles Dasylirion (genus name from the Greek dasys, thick and lirion, lily)
Latin Pronunciation: das-il-lir-ee-OY-deez

Meaning: From the Greek dasys (hairy, shaggy) and petalum (petals)
Latin Pronunciation: das-ee-PET-ah-la

Meaning: Shaggy-leaved
Latin Pronunciation: das-ee-FIL-uh

Meaning: Hairy leaves
Latin Pronunciation: das-ee-FIL-um

Meaning: Shaggy-leaved
Latin Pronunciation: das-ee-FIL-us

Meaning: With hairy stemons
Latin Pronunciation: day-see-STEE-mon

Meaning: From the Greek: dasys (shaggy) and pogon (beard)
Latin Pronunciation: das-ee-POH-gon

data

Raw facts such as individual measurements and observations which can be expressed as numbers or words.

data retrieval

The process--manual or automated--of identifying and locating specific facts in stored documents, published or unpublished, and specimen collections of interest to particular uses. See also: literature retrieval, document retrieval.

Meaning: having flowers like Datura
Latin Pronunciation: dat-you-ray-FLOR-uh

Meaning: Named for Charles Daubeny, 19th century professor of botany at Oxford University
Latin Pronunciation: dow-BEN-ya
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:daw-BEN-ya

Meaning: Having foliage like Daucus (carrot genus)
Latin Pronunciation: do-kih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having foliage like Daucus (carrot genus)
Latin Pronunciation: do-kih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Named for Louis Jean Marie Daubenton, 18th century French naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: doh-ben-TOH-nee-uh

Meaning: Resembling Daucus (carrot genus)
Latin Pronunciation: do-KOY-deez

Meaning: Of or from the Daurian forest steppe area of Mongolia
Latin Pronunciation: DOR-ee-kum

Meaning: Of or from the Daurian forest steppe area of Mongolia
Latin Pronunciation: DOR-ee-ka

Meaning: Of or from the Daurian forest steppe area of Mongolia
Latin Pronunciation: DOR-ee-kus

Meaning: Resembles the genus Davallia
Latin Pronunciation: da-val-lee-oy-dees

Meaning: Named for P?re Armand David, 19th century French missionary in China
Latin Pronunciation: duh-vid-ee-AH-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:duh-vid-ee-AN-uh

Meaning: Named for P?re Armand David, 19th century French missionary in China
Latin Pronunciation: duh-VID-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Rev. Hugh Davies, a 19th century Welsh botanist
Latin Pronunciation: day-VEE-zee-uh

Meaning: Named for Davis, depending on the plant: Peter Hadland Davis, 20th century editor and author; Walter Davis, 19th century plant collector; AR Davis, early 20th century cactus collector
Latin Pronunciation: dav-VISS-ee-eye

Meaning: Of or from the Davis Mountains of west Texas (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: day-vis-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Dawson, Yukon
Latin Pronunciation: daw-son-EN-see

Meaning: Named for Joseph Burtt Davy, 20th century British botanist and explorer in California and South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: DAY-vee-eye

Meaning: Named after Davis
Latin Pronunciation: duh-vis-ee-AH-nuh

Meaning: Of or from Dawson, Yukon
Latin Pronunciation: daw-son-NEN-sis

Meaning: Named for Jackson T. Dawson, 20th century superintendant of the Arnold Arboretum in Boston, Massachusettes (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: daw-son-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Named for Jackson T. Dawson, 20th century superintendant of the Arnold Arboretum in Boston, Massachusettes (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: daw-SON-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for Jackson T. Dawson, 20th century superintendant of the Arnold Arboretum in Boston, Massachusettes (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: daw-SON-ee-eye

dbh

An abbreviation for the phrase "diameter at breast height," a measurement of the thickness of a tree trunk about four feet from the ground.

day degrees

The mathematical statement of the sum of degrees above a threshold for a designated period, such as those above freezing for the growing season. See also: temperature summation.

day-neutral plant

A plant that blooms when the length of day is either long or short. See also: photoperiodism.

deadhead

To remove the blooms after flowering to encourage the development of new flowers.

dealbate

With white powder on the surface; whitish.

Meaning: Whitish-colored
Latin Pronunciation: day-al-BAH-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: dee-al-bay-tus
Meaning: whitish, almost white.

Meaning: Whitish-colored
Latin Pronunciation: day-al-BAH-tum

dealkalization

Removal of base ions from soil by leaching or by chemical treatment with exchangeable sodium. See also: alkali soil.

Meaning: Named for Charles Deam, 20th century American botanist, forester
Latin Pronunciation: DEEM-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for Charles Deam, 20th century American botanist, forester
Latin Pronunciation: DEEM-ee-eye

Meaning: From Debao, in the western Guangxi province of China
Latin Pronunciation: de-bay-oh-EN-sis

Meaning: Weak
Latin Pronunciation: deb-IL-ee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:deb-IL-ay

Latin Pronunciation: deb-il-iss
Meaning: weak, frail.

Meaning: Weak-spined
Latin Pronunciation: deb-il-ih-SPIN-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:deb-il-ih-SPY-nuh

Meaning: Weak-spined
Latin Pronunciation: deb-il-ih-SPIN-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:deb-il-ih-SPY-nus

Meaning: Named for Joseph Decaisne, 19th century Belgian-born French botanist, horticulturist, and director of the Jardin des Plantes, Paris
Latin Pronunciation: de-KANE-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for Joseph Decaisne, 19th century Belgian-born French botanist, horticulturist, and director of the Jardin des Plantes, Paris
Latin Pronunciation: de-kane-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Ten-lobed flower
Latin Pronunciation: dek-a-lohb-AN-thus

Meaning: Having ten stamens
Latin Pronunciation: dek-AN-druh

Meaning: Having ten stamens
Latin Pronunciation: dek-AN-drum

Meaning: ten-angles
Latin Pronunciation: dek-an-gew-LAIR-ee

Meaning: Having ten stamens
Latin Pronunciation: dek-AN-drus

Latin Pronunciation: dek-ap-pet-al-us
Meaning: ten petaled.

Meaning: Having ten petals
Latin Pronunciation: dek-uh-PET-uh-luh

decapod

Animals like lobsters and crabs from the order Decapoda, class Crustacea.

Meaning: Named for Raymond Decary, 20th century plant collector
Latin Pronunciation: de-KAR-yee

decaploid

Having ten sets of chromosomes.

deciduous

1. Not persistent. 2. A tree losing its leaves at the end of the growing season; nonevergreen.

Meaning: From the Latin de (down) and cadere (to fall); deciduous
Latin Pronunciation: dee-SID-yoo-uh

decidulignosa

Communities of deciduous trees and shrubs.

Meaning: From the Latin de (down) and cadere (to fall); deciduous
Latin Pronunciation: dee-SID-yoo-um

Latin Pronunciation: des-sid-yew-us
Meaning: with parts falling (as leaves), deciduous.

Latin Pronunciation: des-sip-ee-enz
Meaning: not obvious, deceptive.

Meaning: Named for Baron Karl Klaus von der Decken, 19th century German explorer of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa
Latin Pronunciation: dek-EN-ee-a

Meaning: Turned away
Latin Pronunciation: dek-lin-AY-tuh

Meaning: Turned away
Latin Pronunciation: dek-lin-AY-tum

declinate

Bending downwards.

Latin Pronunciation: dek-lin-nay-tus
Meaning: bent downward.

decoction

Herbal preparation made by boiling a plant part in water.

Latin Pronunciation: dee-kol-lohr-anz
Meaning: discoloring, staining.

decomposer

Any of various organisms, usually a bacterium or fungus, that breaks down organic substances making the nutrients available again.

Latin Pronunciation: dee-kom-poz-it-us
Meaning: more than once divided or compounded.

Meaning: From the Greek deka (ten) and odon (tooth); alternately originates on stems
Latin Pronunciation: DEK-oh-don

decomposition

The breakdown of tissues and compounds into simpler substances which act as soil nutrients.

decompound

More than once compound or divided.

Meaning: Decorative, adorned
Latin Pronunciation: dek-kor-RAY-tuh

Meaning: Beautiful
Latin Pronunciation: DEK-or-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:day-KOR-uh

Latin Pronunciation: dek-or-anz
Meaning: adorning.

Meaning: Decorative, adorned
Latin Pronunciation: dek-kor-RAY-tum

Meaning: Decorative, adorned
Latin Pronunciation: dek-kor-RAY-tus

decordicate

Lacking a cortex.

Meaning: Shedding bark
Latin Pronunciation: dek-KOR-tee-kans

decreaser

A species that gradually disappears under continued grazing. See also: increaser, population density, cover.

Meaning: decorum
Latin Pronunciation: DEK-or-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:day-KOR-um

Latin Pronunciation: dek-or-us
Meaning: comely, becoming.

decrescent

Becoming gradually less.

Latin Pronunciation: dee-kum-benz
Meaning: reclining at base with tips upright; decum bent.

decumbent

Reclining, but with the tip ascending.

Latin Pronunciation: dee-ker-renz
Meaning: decurrent(as a leaf descending down a stem).

decurrent

Describes a leaf that extends down the stem below the insertion.

Meaning: Extending downward wing or feathers
Latin Pronunciation: deh-KUR-siv-ee pih-NAY-tuh

Meaning: Running downward; decurrent
Latin Pronunciation: de-KURS-iv-a

Meaning: Running downward; decurrent
Latin Pronunciation: de-KURS-iv-um

decussate

Alternating in pairs at right angles.

decurved

With a downward curve.

Meaning: Shaped like an X - leaves, borne in pairs, are at right angles to each other
Latin Pronunciation: de-KUSS-ah-tum

Meaning: Shaped like an X - leaves, borne in pairs, are at right angles to each other
Latin Pronunciation: de-KUSS-ah-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: dee-kuss-say-tus
Meaning: arranged in pairs, with adjacent pairs at right angles (decussate).

deferred grazing

The delay of grazing in forage after growth has started, until development has reached a stage that will promote additional vigor of the plants. See also: cell system pasturing, continuous grazing, rotation grazing.

deep watering

Inundating an area with water for a long period of time, perhaps 24 hours or more, to permeate the deepest layers of subsoil, thereby pulling roots down where they will not easily perish from drought.

deficiency disease

A stress condition or disease of an organism caused by lack of a nutritive substance such as a vitamin or mineral.

Meaning: Named for Albert Deflers, Belgium botanist and collector of Asclepiads
Latin Pronunciation: de-fler-see-AY-nuh

deflected

Bent downward at a sharp angle.

Meaning: Named for Albert Deflers, Belgium botanist and collector of Asclepiads
Latin Pronunciation: deh-FLER-see-eye

definite

Of a constant number, not exceeding 20.

Meaning: Bent sharply downward
Latin Pronunciation: de-FLEKS-uh

Meaning: Bent sharply downward
Latin Pronunciation: de-FLEKS-um

deflexed

Bent or turned abruptly downward.

Latin Pronunciation: dee-flex-us
Meaning: bent sharply downward, deflexed.

deflocculation

Soil aggregates containing clay separating into individual particles.

defoliate (n. defoliation)

1. To cause the leaves of a plant to drop. 2. To remove the leaves of a plant.

defoliant

A chemical substance which causes a plant to drop its leaves.

deformed

Misshapend, distorted.

deflorate

Flowering has completed for the season.

Latin Pronunciation: dee-form-iss
Meaning: misshapen, deformed.

deforestation

Clearing trees from a woodland, often done to promote food for wildlife as well as to provide timber.

Meaning: From the Latin degluptere, to peel or peeling skin, referring to the way the bark peels from the trunk
Latin Pronunciation: de-GLUP-tuh

degradation

Loss of friability or fertility of soil resulting from leaching.

dehisce

To split apart and discharge seeds or spores.

dehiscence (adj. dehiscent)

1. Breaking open at maturity to discharge seeds or spores. 2. Opening regularly to let seeds or spores escape by valves, slits, etc., as a capsule or anther. See also: indehiscent.

dehiscence (adj. dehiscent)

1. Breaking open at maturity to discharge seeds or spores. 2. Opening regularly to let seeds or spores escape by valves, slits, etc., as a capsule or anther. See also: indehiscent.

dehorning

Severely pruning shrubs or trees, often carried to extremes of butchery.

Meaning: Of or from Delagoa Bay (Mozambique)
Latin Pronunciation: del-uh-go-EN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:del-uh-go-EN-say

Meaning: from the Greek deinos (wonderous) and anthe (flower)
Latin Pronunciation: dine-ANTH-ee

Meaning: Of or from Delagoa Bay (Mozambique)
Latin Pronunciation: del-uh-go-EN-sis

Meaning: Named for Eugene Delaire, 19th century head gardener at the botanical gardens in Orleans
Latin Pronunciation: del-LAIR-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for Father IM Delavay, 19th century plant collector
Latin Pronunciation: del-uh-VAY-ee

Meaning: Named for Rick DeLamater, 21st century expert on Agaves
Latin Pronunciation: de-la-MAY-ter-ee

Latin Pronunciation: dee-lek-tus
Meaning: chosen.

Meaning: Delicate, soft
Latin Pronunciation: del-ih-KAY-tuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:del-ih-KAH-tuh

delicate

Fragile; easily broken.

Latin Pronunciation: del-ik-at-tiss-im-us
Meaning: very delicate.

Meaning: Somewhat delicate
Latin Pronunciation: del-lih-KAY-tew-lum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:del-lih-KAY-tuh-lum

Meaning: Somewhat delicate
Latin Pronunciation: del-lih-KAY-tew-lus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:del-lih-KAY-tuh-lus

Meaning: Somewhat delicate
Latin Pronunciation: del-lih-KAY-tew-luh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:del-lih-KAY-tuh-luh

Latin Pronunciation: del-ik-kay-tus
Meaning: delicate, tender.

Meaning: Delicious
Latin Pronunciation: de-lis-ee-OH-suh

Meaning: Delicate, soft
Latin Pronunciation: del-ih-KAY-tum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:del-ih-KAH-tum

Meaning: Delicious
Latin Pronunciation: de-lis-ee-OH-sum

Latin Pronunciation: del-iss-ee-oh-sus
Meaning: delicious.

deliquesce (n. deliquescence, adj. deliquescent)

1. To branch into many subdivisions and lacking a main axis. 2. To liquefy or become soft with age, as occurs with some fungi.

Meaning: Of or from Dauphine, France
Latin Pronunciation: del-fin-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Dauphine, France
Latin Pronunciation: del-fin-EN-sis

deltate

Broadly triangular with an obtuse apex.

deltoid (alt. deltate)

A low triangle attached at the middle of the wide part, rather than at the point; shaped like the Greek letter delta.

Latin Pronunciation: del-toy-deez
Meaning: roughly triangular.

Meaning: Triangle-shaped; Delta-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: del-TOY-dee-um

Meaning: Triangle-shaped; Delta-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: del-TOY-dee-us

Latin Pronunciation: del-toy-dee-us
Meaning: deltoid (triangular).

Meaning: Delta (triangular) shaped foliage
Latin Pronunciation: del-to-FIL-a

Meaning: Triangle-shaped; Delta-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: del-TOY-dee-uh

Meaning: Delta (triangular) shaped foliage
Latin Pronunciation: del-to-FIL-um

Meaning: Delta (triangular) shaped foliage
Latin Pronunciation: del-to-FIL-us

demarcation

An outline, boundary, delimitation, separation.

deme

One or more populations of a taxon; a population that will interbreed.

demersed

Constantly under water.

Meaning: Grows under water
Latin Pronunciation: Dem-er-sah

Meaning: Grows under water
Latin Pronunciation: Dem-er-sum

Latin Pronunciation: dee-mer-sus
Meaning: submerged.

Meaning: Low-lying, hanging
Latin Pronunciation: dee-MISS-uh

Latin Pronunciation: dee-miss-us
Meaning: low, weak.

Meaning: Low-lying, hanging
Latin Pronunciation: dee-MISS-um

demography

The study of populations and their analysis regarding reproduction, deaths, age, etc.

demulcents

Herbal medicines that can break up phlegm or other mucus; sometimes used externally to sooth and soften skin.

Meaning: From the Greek dendron (tree) and anthemon (flower); referring to the woody flower stems
Latin Pronunciation: den-dran-THEE-muh

Meaning: From the Greek dendron (tree) and calamus (reed); referring to the tall heights these bamboos reach
Latin Pronunciation: den-droh-KAL-uh-mus

dendrochronology

The science of dating events and cyclic weather patterns by studying growth rings in trees and lumber.

dendroid (alt. dendritic)

1. Shaped like a tree. 2. Arranged in a shape like a tree, like some hairs on Cruciferae.

Meaning: Tree-like
Latin Pronunciation: den-DROY-dee-uh

Latin Pronunciation: den-droy-dee-us
Meaning: tree like.

Meaning: Tree-like
Latin Pronunciation: den-DROY-dee-um

dendrology

The study of woody plants.

Meaning: From the Greek dendron (tree) and Panax (genus name)
Latin Pronunciation: den-DRO-pan-aks

Meaning: From the Greek dendron (tree) and philos (love); tree-lover
Latin Pronunciation: den-dro-FY-luh

Meaning: From the Greek dendron (tree) and philos (love); tree-lover
Latin Pronunciation: den-dro-FY-lum

Meaning: From the Greek dendron (tree) and phylakos (watcher, guard)
Latin Pronunciation: den-dro-FY-laks

Meaning: Named for Gregory C. DeNevers, 21st century American botanist and palm specialist
Latin Pronunciation: de-nev-ers-ee-AH-na

Meaning: An anagram for Mendoza, the Argentinian province to which this plant is native
Latin Pronunciation: den-MOH-zuh

denitrification

The loss or removal of nitrogen or nitrogen compounds; specifically, a reduction of nitrates or nitrites caused by bacteria that usually results in the escape of nitrogen into the air.

Meaning: Dog's tooth
Latin Pronunciation: denz KAN-iss

Meaning: Densely-nippled
Latin Pronunciation: den-see-ar-ee-oh-LAY-tus

Meaning: Compact, dense
Latin Pronunciation: DEN-suh

Meaning: Densely flowered
Latin Pronunciation: den-see-FLOR-um

Latin Pronunciation: den-sif-floh-rus
Meaning: densely flowered.

Meaning: Densely flowered
Latin Pronunciation: den-see-FLOR-uh

Meaning: Having dense foliage
Latin Pronunciation: den-see-FOH-lee-a

Meaning: Having dense foliage
Latin Pronunciation: den-see-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having dense foliage
Latin Pronunciation: den-see-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Densely-spined
Latin Pronunciation: dens-ih-SPIN-uh

Meaning: Densely-spined
Latin Pronunciation: dens-ih-SPIN-us

density-independent factor

An influence that is effective regardless of density of a population, like the influence of a drought. Some scientists dispute the existence of such a factor. See also: nonreactive factor.

Meaning: Compact, dense
Latin Pronunciation: DEN-sum

density-dependent factor

An influence that hinges on a certain density of individuals to be fully effective, like peach trees or Amygdalis that must be 75 feet or closer for insects to successfully cross pollinate them.

Latin Pronunciation: den-sus
Meaning: dense, compact.

Meaning: Toothed
Latin Pronunciation: den-TAY-tuh

dentate

Toothed, usually with the teeth directed outward.

dentation

The teeth along the margin of an organ.

Meaning: Toothed
Latin Pronunciation: den-TAY-tum

Latin Pronunciation: den-tay-tus
Meaning: toothed, dentate.

Meaning: Dog's tooth
Latin Pronunciation: DEN-teez KAN-eez

denticle

A small tooth; in plants of the family Rubiaceae, thick papillate tubercles along the margin of the interpetiolar stipules.

denticulate

Minutely dentate.

Meaning: Finely toothed
Latin Pronunciation: den-tik-yoo-LAH-tuh

Meaning: Finely toothed
Latin Pronunciation: den-tik-yoo-LAH-tum

Latin Pronunciation: den - tik - yew - lay - tus
Meaning:

dentiform

Tooth-shaped.

Latin Pronunciation: den-toh-sus
Meaning: toothed.

Meaning: Naked; without leaves
Latin Pronunciation: dee-noo-DAY-ta

denudate

Stripped bare.

Meaning: Naked; without leaves
Latin Pronunciation: dee-noo-DAY-tum

Latin Pronunciation: dee-new-day-tus
Meaning: naked,bare.

denude (alt. denudate, n. denudation)

1. To strip, remove all covering, as tornadoes may denude all trees of leaves. 2. To lay bare, as a hill from erosion. 3. The total destruction of plant and animal life by physical or biotic means.

Meaning: From the Sanskrit devadaru, meaning divine
Latin Pronunciation: dee-oh-DAR-uh

Meaning: From the Sanskrit devadaru, meaning divine
Latin Pronunciation: dee-oh-DAR-us

deoperculate

Applies to a capsule after its lid has detached.

deoxyribonucleic acid (abr. DNA)

The chief material constituting genes and chromosomes.

depauperate

Starved; prevented from coming to its natural size through lack of nourishment.

dependence

An association between organisms in which the dependent one receives benefits but gives no benefit to the other, characteristic of such plants as mistletoe,Phoradendron, living on an oak,Quercus; not reciprocal. See also: symbiosis, competition, coaction, parasite.

dependency zone (alt. dependency range)

A belt surrounding an area of private land which supplements the use of the private land with additional use of public land.

Latin Pronunciation: dee-pen-denz
Meaning: hanging down.

dependent

Hanging downward because of excess weight of flowers or fruit.

dependent property (alt. dependent range)

Privately controlled land or water assumed to have special claim for use of public or cooperatively controlled range.

deplanate

Flat.

Meaning: Named for Emile Deplanche, 19th century colleague to Veillard, a Naval surgeon and botanist who studied. the flora of New Caledonia
Latin Pronunciation: de-PLANCH-ee-a

Meaning: Named for Emile Deplanche, 19th century colleague to Veillard, a Naval surgeon and botanist who studied. the flora of New Caledonia
Latin Pronunciation: de-planch-ee-AY-na

Meaning: Named for Ferdinand Deppe, 18th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: DEP-ee-a

Meaning: Named for Emile Deplanche, 19th century colleague to Veillard, a Naval surgeon and botanist who studied. the flora of New Caledonia
Latin Pronunciation: de-planch-ee-AY-num

Meaning: Named for Ferdinand Deppe, 18th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: dep-ee-AH-na
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dep-ee-AY-na

Meaning: Named for Ferdinand Deppe, 18th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: DEP-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Ferdinand Deppe, 18th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: dep-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Depressed, sunken
Latin Pronunciation: de-PRESS-uh

Meaning: Depressed, sunken
Latin Pronunciation: de-PRESS-um

Latin Pronunciation: dee-press-us
Meaning: flattened, depressed.

Meaning: Of or from Derema, Tanzania
Latin Pronunciation: dair-rem-MEN-sis

depressed

Somewhat flattened from above.

Meaning: Possibly named for Dr. Julius Derenberg, 19th century German supporter of Dinter's plant collecting expeditions to South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: der-en-BERG-ee-eye

Meaning: Of or from the Derwent River, Tasmania (Australia)
Latin Pronunciation: der-WENT-ee-uh

Meaning: Leather covering, referring to the tough seed pods
Latin Pronunciation: DER-riss

Meaning: Of or from the Derwent River, Tasmania (Australia)
Latin Pronunciation: der-went-ee-AY-nuh

desalinization

1. The process of removal of salt from sea water to make drinking water. 2. Removal of salts from soil, usually by leaching.

descending

Bending gradually downward.

Meaning: Named for Louis August Deschamps, 19th century French naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: deh-SHAMP-see-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dess-CHAMP-see-uh

description

A list of characters which gives the attributes or features of a specific taxon.

Meaning: Named for 18th century French botanist and physician/pharmacist Francois Descourain
Latin Pronunciation: des-koor-RAY-nee-uh

desert

An arid barren land, usually with very little precipitation and often consisting of a primarily sand soil.

Meaning: A variation (misspelling) of Descurainia, which is named for 18th century French botanist and physician/pharmacist Francois Descourain
Latin Pronunciation: des-koor-RAY-nee-uh

deserta

Various types of plants found in areas that are low in available water like arid deserts, saline deserts, permafrost deserts, tundra, strand vegetation, and rocky mountainsides.

Meaning: Of the desert
Latin Pronunciation: DES-er-tee

desert grassland

Areas of the southwestern united States characterized by several species of adapted deep- rooted grasses such as grama grass, three awn grass, and curly mesquite.

Meaning: Grows in deserts, lonely places
Latin Pronunciation: de-ZER-tor-um

desert pavement

The stony surface of dryland areas when fine materials have disappeared from actions of water and wind.

Meaning: Named for Rene Louiche Desfontaines, 19th century French botanist and professor at the Jardin des Plantes, Paris
Latin Pronunciation: des-fon-TAY-nee-uh

desiccate (n. dessication)

To dry up.

desilting area (alt. desilting basin, settling basin)

An expanse set aside above a dam, pond or field solely for the deposit of silt and debris from flowing water. See also: detention basin.

Meaning: Named for Jean Baptiste Joseph Henri Desmazieres, 19th century French botanist; arguably a misspelling of Demazeria
Latin Pronunciation: de-MA-zer-ee-uh

Meaning: Resembles Desmoncus
Latin Pronunciation: des-mon-KOY-deez

Meaning: From the Greek desmos (band, chain) and onkos (hook), referring to the hook-like leaf tips
Latin Pronunciation: des-MON-kus

determinate

Having growth where a bud or flower terminates the growing tip, e.g., a determinate inflorescence.

Meaning: With scales removed; bereft of scales
Latin Pronunciation: des-kwa-MAY-tum

detention basin (alt. detention dam, detention area, detention pond)

A man-made holding area for the purpose of storing sewer overflow and surface runoff until such time as the water may be released for treatment without causing flooding.

Meaning: Named after William Detmold, 19th century stationer, and friend of the German/Australian botanist Baron Ferdinand von Mueller
Latin Pronunciation: det-MOL-dee-eye

dethatcher (alt. de-thatcher)

A tool which combs clippings and thatch to the surface of the lawn.

Meaning: Shorn, sheared off or clipped
Latin Pronunciation: de-TON-sa

Meaning: Shorn, sheared off or clipped
Latin Pronunciation: de-TON-sus

Meaning: Shorn, sheared off or clipped
Latin Pronunciation: de-TON-sum

detritivores

Organisms such as fungi, bacteria, and earthworms which consume nonliving material.

Latin Pronunciation: dee-uss-tus
Meaning: burned.

detritus

1. Any loose material that has separated from a mass, such as gravel from a rock face.

Meaning: Second Cohnia (acknowledging the existing genus Cohnia); named for Ferdinand Julius Cohn, 19th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: doo-ter-oh-KON-ee-uh

Devonian

A geological period in the Paleozoic era, which lasted from about 325 million years to 45 million years ago.

dew point

The temperature at which air is capable of holding no additional water vapor, with either a drop in temperature or an increase in water vapor causing the vapor to condense into liquid as rain, fog, or dew. During the course of precipitation, the relative humidity is 100 percent and the saturation deficit is zero.

dextrorse

Turned to the right.

Meaning: Named after Nicolas Deyeux, 19th century Professor of the School of Pharmacy and Faculty of Medicine, Paris
Latin Pronunciation: dee-EW-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:day-EW-ee-uh

Meaning: Two-spined
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ah-KANTH-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-ah-KAN-tha

Meaning: Two-spined
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ah-KANTH-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-ah-KAN-thum

Latin Pronunciation: dye-ak-kanth-us
Meaning: twospined, two-thorned.

Latin Pronunciation: dye - ad - dee - mus
Meaning: two crowned.

diadelphous

Refers to stamens which are combined in two sets.

diagnosis

A list of characters in systematics that distinguishes one taxon from another.

dialypetalous

With separate petals.

dialysis

Separation of dissolved substances by their unequal diffusion through semipermeable membranes.

diagonal

The average, a compromise of position.

Meaning: Having separated stamens
Latin Pronunciation: dy-al-ih-STEE-mon

diandrous

With two perfect stamens.

diameter at breast height (alt,. diameter breast high, abr. d.b.h., abr. DBH)

The width of the trunk of a standing tree, measured at 4.5 feet (1.3 meters) above ground surface.

Latin Pronunciation: dye-and-rus
Meaning: two-stamened.

Meaning: From the municipality of Diannan in Gejiu County, Yunnan Province
Latin Pronunciation: di-uh-nan-NEN-sis

Meaning: Having flowers like dianthus
Latin Pronunciation: die-AN-thuh-flor-uh

Meaning: From the Greek di (two) and anther (flower)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ANTH-er-uh

Meaning: Having flowers like dianthus
Latin Pronunciation: die-AN-thuh-flor-um

Meaning: Divine flower
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ANTH-a

Latin Pronunciation: dye-anth-if-floh-rus
Meaning: Dianthus-flowered.

Meaning: Having foliage like Dianthus
Latin Pronunciation: dy-anth-ih-FOH-lee-a

Meaning: Having foliage like Dianthus
Latin Pronunciation: dy-anth-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Divine flower
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ANTH-um

diaphanous

Very thin and transparent or translucent.

Latin Pronunciation: dye-aff-an-us
Meaning: thin, transparent.

diaphoretics

Herbal medicines that promote perspiration and lower temperature.

diaphragm

Dividing membrane or partition.

Meaning: Two males, referring to stamens (although it often has more than two)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ar-HEN-uh

diaspore

A reproductive portion of a plant like a seed or bud, that is dispersed and may give rise to a new plant. See also: disseminule.

Meaning: Possibly meaning two sacs (spurs); alternately from the Greek diaskeo, to adorn
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ASS-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:die-ASH-ee-uh

diastrophism

Displacement of the earth's crust by folding or slippage, causing the formation of mountains, chasms, etc.

Meaning: From the Greek diastellein, (to separate), referring to a gap or space
Latin Pronunciation: dy-a-STEE-ma

diatom

Any of the minute planktonic unicellular or colonial algae of the class Bacillariophyceae, which contain silica.

Meaning: From the Greek diastellein, (to separate), referring to the perianth lobes
Latin Pronunciation: dy-uh-STEL-uh

diatomaceous earth (syn. diatomite)

A porous, light-colored material composed of the skeletons of diatoms.

diatomaceous ooze

Material consisting of siliceous remains of diatoms, found in cold seas.

dibble (alt. dibber)

A small hand implement used to make holes in the ground for plants, seeds and, most often, bulbs.

dibrachiate

Refers to branches that spread widely.

Meaning: With two spines
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KAN-tha

Meaning: With two spines
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KAN-thum

Meaning: With two spines
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KAN-thus

Meaning: Two-fruited
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KAR-pum

Meaning: Two-fruited
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KAR-pa

Meaning: Having two parts
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KEE-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-KAY-uh

dicarpellary

Composed of two carpels.

Meaning: From the Greek dicha (divided in two) and anthos (flower), referring to the sterile spikelet on each flower
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KAN-thee-um

dichasium

A cyme with opposite branching below the terminating flower.

Meaning: From the Greek dicha (twice or bifid) and anthelion, (diminutive of anthos or flower)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kan-THEL-ee-um

Meaning: From Greek dichelos (split) and achne (chaff), referring to the bifid lemma
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kel-AK-nee

Meaning: From the Greek dicha, (bifid) and stemma, (garland, crown); referring to the forked appendages on the stamens
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kel-OH-stem-uh

dichlamydeous

Describes a flower which has two whorls of perianth parts.

dichogamy

The differing times of maturation of stamens and pistils in a flower.

dichloro-diphenyl-trichlorethane (abr. DDT)

An insecticide extensively used during the period after World War II that is now outlawed in the united States and most of the industrialized world.

Meaning: Having foliage like Dichondra (genus name meaning two capsules)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kon-drih-FOH-lee-a

Meaning: From the Greek di (two) and chondros (grain of corn); refers to the two capsules
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KON-druh

Meaning: Having foliage like Dichondra (genus name meaning two capsules)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kon-drih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having foliage like Dichondra (genus name meaning two capsules)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kon-drih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Divided or forked in pairs
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KAW-toh-muh

Meaning: Having divided (or forked in pairs) flower heads
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kot-oh-mi-FLOR-um

dichotomous

Forking regularly by pairs.

dichotomous key (syn. floral key)

A series of choices leading to the identification of a species.

Meaning: Divided or forked in pairs
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KAW-toh-mum

Latin Pronunciation: dye-kot-om-us
Meaning: forked, two-branched.

dichotomy

The division of a growing point into two halves.

Meaning: From the Greek dis (twice) and chroa (color)
Latin Pronunciation: DY-kro-uh

Meaning: Two-colored flowers
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kroh-AN-thus

Meaning: Two-colored flowers
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kroh-AN-tha

Meaning: Two-colored flowers
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kroh-AN-thum

Meaning: From the Greek; di (two), chroic (colour) and stachys (spike)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kro-STAK-iss
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-kro-STAY-kiss

Meaning: Two colours
Latin Pronunciation: dy-KROH-men-uh

Meaning: Foldwing
Latin Pronunciation: dye-CLIP-ter-uh

diclinous (alt. diclinic)

Having the stamens and the pistils in separate flowers.

Meaning: From the Greek diklis (double-folding) and pteron (wing), referring to the wing-like divisions in the capsule
Latin Pronunciation: dye-CLIP-ter-uh

Latin Pronunciation: dye-kok-us
Meaning: two-berried.

dicoumarol

A compound derived from spoiled sweet clover hay and used to delay clotting of blood.

Meaning: From the Greek dikranos (two-branched) and styles
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kray-no-STY-lees

dicotyledon (adj. dicotyledonous)

A flowering plant with two cotyledons.

Meaning: From the Greek dictyon (a net), referring to the vein pattern
Latin Pronunciation: dik-TIM-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek dictyon (a net) and phylla (leaves)
Latin Pronunciation: dik-tee-oh-FIL-uh

Meaning: From the Greek dictyon (a net) and phylla (leaves)
Latin Pronunciation: dik-tee-oh-FIL-um

Meaning: Two discs
Latin Pronunciation: dy-diss-kus

Meaning: Netted; latticed
Latin Pronunciation: dik-tee-OH-tum

Meaning: In pairs
Latin Pronunciation: DID-ee-muh

Meaning: Pairs of fruit
Latin Pronunciation: did-ee-mo-KAR-pum

Meaning: Pairs of grape clusters
Latin Pronunciation: did-ee-mo-BOT-ree-uh

Meaning: Pairs of fruit
Latin Pronunciation: did-ee-mo-KAR-pus

Meaning: From the Greek didymos (twin, paired) and chlaina (cloak), referring ot the shape of the spore-bearing parts
Latin Pronunciation: did-ee-moh-KLAY-ee-nuh

Meaning: In pairs
Latin Pronunciation: DID-ee-mum

didymous

Twin; found in pairs.

didynamous

Refers to stamens found in two pairs of unequal length.

Latin Pronunciation: did-im-us
Meaning: paired (as anthers).

Meaning: Pairs of fruit
Latin Pronunciation: did-ee-mo-KAR-pa

dieback

The dying of the outer portions of a plant due to disease or weather damage; death of part or all of the woody portion of a plant.

Meaning: Named for Dr. Ernst Dieffenbach, 19th century German naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: def-en-BAH-kee-eye

diel

The 24-hour period of night and day. See also: diurnal, nocturnal, crepuscular.

Meaning: Named for Friedrich Ludwig Emil Diels, 20th century director of Berlin-Dahlmen botanic garden, and noted expert on Australian plants
Latin Pronunciation: deels-ee-AH-nuh

Meaning: Named for Friedrich Ludwig Emil Diels, 20th century director of Berlin-Dahlmen botanic garden, and noted expert on Australian plants
Latin Pronunciation: deels-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Named for Friedrich Ludwig Emil Diels, 20th century director of Berlin-Dahlmen botanic garden, and noted expert on Australian plants
Latin Pronunciation: DEELS-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Friedrich Ludwig Emil Diels, 20th century director of Berlin-Dahlmen botanic garden, and noted expert on Australian plants
Latin Pronunciation: deels-ee-AH-nus

Meaning: Of or from Van Diemen's Land, an old name for Tasmania
Latin Pronunciation: DEE-menz-iss

differential species (alt. differentiating species)

A species with high fidelity to a particular community that can be used to distinguish vegetation units.

differentiation

1. Maturation of a cell, organ, or immature organism from juvenile to adult status. 2. The development of new kinds of organisms in the course of evolution.

Meaning: Having two relatives
Latin Pronunciation: dy-AY-teez
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dee-AY-teez

difform

Not similar.

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning difficult
Latin Pronunciation: dif-fih-SIL-iss

Meaning: Differing shape
Latin Pronunciation: dif-FOR-me

Latin Pronunciation: dif-form-iss
Meaning: differing.

Meaning: Loosely spreading
Latin Pronunciation: dy-FEW-sa

diffuse

Widely or loosely scattered or spreading.

Meaning: Most spreading
Latin Pronunciation: dy-few-SIS-ee-ma
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dif-yoo-SIS-ee-ma

Meaning: from the Latin for "most spreading"
Latin Pronunciation: dif-you-SIS-ee-muss

Meaning: Most spreading
Latin Pronunciation: dif-yoo-SIS-ee-mum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-few-SIS-ee-mum

Meaning: Loosely spreading
Latin Pronunciation: dy-FEW-sum

Latin Pronunciation: dif-few-sus
Meaning: spreading (diffuse).

Meaning: Finger
Latin Pronunciation: dig-ee-TAH-lee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dij-ee-TAH-lee

digestion

The conversion of complex organic substances into simpler fats, proteins, and carbohydrates by chemical reactions and enzymatic processes.

digamous

With both sexes in the same flower cluster.

Meaning: Having flowers similar in form to those of the Digitalis genus
Latin Pronunciation: dij-ee-tal-ee-flor-a

digitalin

One of the mixtures of glycosides used in making digitalis.

Latin Pronunciation: dij-it-tay-liss
Meaning: finger-form.

Meaning: From the Latin digitus (finger)
Latin Pronunciation: dij-ih-TARE-ree-uh

Meaning: Finger
Latin Pronunciation: dig-ee-TAH-tuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dij-ee-TAH-tuh

digitate

Finger-like; compound, with the members arising together at the apex of the support.

Meaning: Finger
Latin Pronunciation: dig-ee-TAH-tum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dij-ee-TAH-tum

digonous

Two- angled, as are the stems of some cacti.

Latin Pronunciation: dij-it-tay-tus
Meaning: finger-form (digitate).

Meaning: Named for Leon Diguet, a 19th century French chemist who explored the pearl fisheries on Santa Catalina Island, California
Latin Pronunciation: dee-GWEE-tee-eye

Meaning: Two women; referring to two carpels
Latin Pronunciation: dy-GY-nuh

Meaning: Two women; referring to two carpels
Latin Pronunciation: dy-GY-num

digynous

With two separated carpels or styles.

dig in

To bury during the process of turning soil for planting, as occurs with compost, fertilizer, etc.

Meaning: Two women; referring to two carpels
Latin Pronunciation: dy-GY-nus

dike

An embankment built to protect land from flooding or erosion, or to stop the loss of water from wetlands.

dihybrid

A crossbreed; an organism that came about from the breeding of parents that differ in at least two characters, e.g., leaf shape and plant height.

Meaning: Expanded
Latin Pronunciation: dil-uh-TAY-tuh

Meaning: Expanded
Latin Pronunciation: dil-uh-TAY-tum

Latin Pronunciation: dye-lat-tay-tus
Meaning: expanded.

dilated

Flat and broad, as an expanded filament.

Latin Pronunciation: dye-lay-tus
Meaning: expanded, spread- out.

Meaning: Named for Johann Jacob Dillen (Latinized to Dillenius), 18th century German botanist and physician
Latin Pronunciation: dil-LEN-ee-uh

dilettante

A rather derogatory term for one who becomes interested in one field, then another, never delving deeply into any of them, an amateur, or at best a generalist.

dimerous

Having all the parts of the flower in twos.

Meaning: Named for Johann Jacob Dillen (Latinized to Dillenius), 18th century German botanist and physician
Latin Pronunciation: dil-LEN-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Lewis Weston Dillwyn, 19th century Bristish botanist
Latin Pronunciation: dil-WIN-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek di- (two) and lochos (rank), referring to the distichous bracts
Latin Pronunciation: dy-LOH-kee-uh

Meaning: Divided into two dissimilar/unequal parts
Latin Pronunciation: dim-id-ee-AY-tum

dimidiate

Halved diagonally, or as if one half was wanting.

Meaning: Divided into two dissimilar/unequal parts
Latin Pronunciation: dim-id-ee-AY-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: dye-mid-ee-ay-tus
Meaning: halved, in two equal parts.

Meaning: Two shapes
Latin Pronunciation: dy-MOR-fuh

Meaning: From the Greek dis (twice) and karpos fruit), possibly referring to the two-lobed pistil
Latin Pronunciation: dy-mo-KAR-pus

dimorphic

Having two shapes; in ferns usually refers to fertile versus sterile laminae or portions of laminae.

dimorphism

The state of a plant or animal showing two forms or colors in the same population, e.g., snowshoe rabbits with winter white and summer brown coats. See also: polymorphism.

Latin Pronunciation: dye-morf-us
Meaning: two-formed.

dimorphous

Occurring in two forms.

Meaning: Two shapes
Latin Pronunciation: dy-MOR-fum

Meaning: Named for Professor Kurt Dinter, 20th century German botanist and collector in Africa
Latin Pronunciation: din-ter-AN-thus

Meaning: Named for Professor Moritz Kurt Dinter, 20th century German explorer and succulent collector
Latin Pronunciation: DIN-ter-ee

Meaning: Named for Professor Moritz Kurt Dinter, 20th century German explorer and succulent collector
Latin Pronunciation: din-ter-ee-ANTH-us

dioecious (alt. diecious)

Unisexual, with male and female flowers on separate plants.

Meaning: Named for Professor Moritz Kurt Dinter, 20th century German explorer and succulent collector
Latin Pronunciation: din-TER-ee-eye

Meaning: From the Greek word for thoroughfare or toll
Latin Pronunciation: dy-OH-dee-uh

Meaning: Male and female flowers on separate plants
Latin Pronunciation: dy-oh-EE-kum

Latin Pronunciation: dye-od-on
Meaning: two-toothed.

Meaning: Male and female flowers on separate plants
Latin Pronunciation: dy-oh-EE-kuh

Latin Pronunciation: dye-oh-ik-us
Meaning: having male and female flowers on separate plants, dioecious (dye-eesh-us).

Meaning: From the Greek dionysos (a Greek name for Bacchus)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-oh-NIZ-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek dis (twice) and oon (egg); refers to the paired seeds
Latin Pronunciation: dy-OH-awn

Meaning: Having leaves like Dioscorea (yam or sweet potato, named for Dioscorides, 1st century Greek pharmacologist)
Latin Pronunciation: di-oh-SKOR-ee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Named for Pedanios Dioscorides, first century Greek pharmacologist
Latin Pronunciation: dy-oh-SKOR-ih-diss

Meaning: Having foliage like Diosma (from the Greek dios, divine; and osme, fragrance)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ohs-mih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having foliage like Diosma (from the Greek dios, divine; and osme, fragrance)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ohs-mih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Having foliage like Diosma (from the Greek dios, divine; and osme, fragrance)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ohs-mih-FOH-lee-um

dip

A depression, as between two sand ridges.

Meaning: A Turkish name for the musk hyacinth
Latin Pronunciation: DIP-kad-ee

Latin Pronunciation: dye-pet-al-us
Meaning: two-petaled

Meaning: Two-winged
Latin Pronunciation: DIP-ter-us

Meaning: Two-leaved
Latin Pronunciation: dy-FIL-uh

Meaning: Two-leaved
Latin Pronunciation: dy-FIL-um

Meaning: From the Greek diploos (double)
Latin Pronunciation: DY-pla-kus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:DIP-la-kus

Latin Pronunciation: dye-fill-us
Meaning: two-leaved.

Meaning: From the Greek diploos (double) and arrhen (male), referring to the two fertile stamens; also spelled Diplarrhena
Latin Pronunciation: dy-plar-REN-uh

Meaning: Variant spelling of Diplarrena, genus name from the Greek diploos (double) and arren (male), referring to the two fertile stamens
Latin Pronunciation: dy-plar-REN-uh

diplecolobous

Describes cotyledons in a seed which are twice folded transversely.

diplochory

Describes seed dispersal involving two or more modes. For instance, a bird eats a fruit and disperses seed in it's droppings and these are later carried away by insects.

Meaning: From the Greek diploos (double) and cyclos (circular, wheel)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-plo-SY-kla

Meaning: From the Greek diploos (double) and cyclos (circular, wheel)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-PLO-sy-klos
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dip-lo-KEE-klos

Meaning: From the Greek diploos (double) and cyclos (circular, wheel)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-plo-SY-klus

Meaning: From the Greek diploos (double) and cyclos (circular, wheel)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-plo-SY-klum

Meaning: From the greek diploos (double) and glottis (tongue), referring to the double petals
Latin Pronunciation: dip-loh-GLOT-tis

Meaning: From the Greek diplo (having two parts) and glossa (tongue)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-plo-GLOSS-a

Meaning: From the Greek diploos (two) and chlaina (cloak); refers to the double row of bracts that surrounds the flowers
Latin Pronunciation: dy-plo-LAY-na

diploid

Having two sets of chromosomes.

Meaning: From the Greek diplo (double) and merus (part or member), referring to the divided leaflet
Latin Pronunciation: di-ploh-MER-uh

diplostemonous

The stamens of the flower are arranged in two separate whorls, the outer one with stamens alternate with the petals, the inner one opposite the petals.

Meaning: Similar to Diplostephium (a genus of little garden interest)
Latin Pronunciation: dip-loh-stef-ee-OY-deez

Meaning: Double-crowned
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ploh-STEE-fee-um

Meaning: Like Teasel
Latin Pronunciation: dip-SAK-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek di- (two) and podion (little foot)
Latin Pronunciation: dy-POH-dee-um

Meaning: Like Teasel
Latin Pronunciation: dip-SAK-ee-us

Meaning: Two-winged
Latin Pronunciation: DIP-ter-uh

Meaning: From the Greek di (two) and pogon (beard)
Latin Pronunciation: DY-poh-gon

Meaning: From the Greek dipteras (two-winged) and Acanthus (alluding to the two-leaved peduncle
Latin Pronunciation: dip-ter-uh-KAN-tha

Meaning: From the Greek dipteras (two-winged) and Acanthus (alluding to the two-leaved peduncle
Latin Pronunciation: dip-ter-uh-KAN-thus

Meaning: From the Greek dipteras (two-winged) karpos (fruit)
Latin Pronunciation: dip-ter-oh-KAR-puh

Meaning: From the Greek di (two) and pteris (a fern), in reference to the deeply bilobed fronds
Latin Pronunciation: DIP-ter-is

Meaning: From the Greek dipteras (two-winged) karpos (fruit)
Latin Pronunciation: dip-ter-oh-KAR-pum

Meaning: From the Greek di (two) and pteron (wing); referring to the winged fruit
Latin Pronunciation: dip-ter-OH-nee-uh

Latin Pronunciation: dip-ter-oh-karp-us
Meaning: with two-winged fruit.

Latin Pronunciation: dip-ter-us
Meaning: two-winged.

Meaning: Two-winged
Latin Pronunciation: DIP-ter-um

direct seeding

Planting straight into soil where the plant is to grow rather than germinating seeds indoors and transplanting.

dirt

Soil.

disarticulating

Breaking apart at the joints when mature.

direct sunlight

Unobstructed sunlight. See also: skylight.

Meaning: Two flowers
Latin Pronunciation: dis-AN-thus

disbudding

The removal of the side flower buds around a central bud to induce extra-large blooms; or to selectively remove buds to conserve strength in a newly- transplanted perennial.

Meaning: From the Greek diskos (disk), referring to the large fleshy disc on the flower
Latin Pronunciation: dis-KAR-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-SKAIR-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek dis (twice) and the Latin schidius (cleft or split)
Latin Pronunciation: dis-KID-ee-uh

disc

1. The surface of apothecia. 2. A more or less flat, circular group of tubular florets fully visible in open-centered type dahlias.

disciform

Round and flattened. See also: discoid.

Meaning: Disc-formed
Latin Pronunciation: disk-ee-FORM-ee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:disk-ee-FORM-ay

Latin Pronunciation: disk-if-form-iss
Meaning: disc- formed.

discoid (adj. discoidal)

1. Resembling a disk. 2. In Compositae, a flower head without ray flowers, having disk flowers only.

disclimax

A one-time climax community which has been disturbed by people or their domestic livestock, such as a deciduous forest being replaced by a cropland.

Meaning: Disc-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: disk-OY-dal-ee

Meaning: Disc-like
Latin Pronunciation: dis-KOY-dee-uh

Meaning: Disc-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: disk-OY-dal-iss

Latin Pronunciation: dis-koy-dee-us
Meaning: ray-less, discoid.

Meaning: Disc-like
Latin Pronunciation: dis-KOY-dee-um

Latin Pronunciation: dis-kol-or
Meaning: of two different colors.

discolorous

Refers to a leaf which has different colors on the two surfaces.

discrete

Separate, distinct.

discontinuity (alt. disjunction)

A gap in the range of a taxon. See also: distribution, disjunct.

Meaning: From the Greek di (two) and selma (upper), referring to the two fertile scales in the cone
Latin Pronunciation: DY-sel-muh

disc floret

One of the small tubular, actinomorphic florets which make up the central part of the flower head in Compositae, each with a pistil and stamens but generally no other conspicuous flower parts. See also: ray floret.

disk flower (alt. disc flower)

In Compositae, the tubular flowers of the head, as distinct from the ray.

dish garden

A group of plants growing in a bowl or a shallow pot.

Meaning: From the Latin meaning to disjoin, distinct or separate
Latin Pronunciation: dis-JUNK-ta

disjunct

Separated geographically, especially the population of a restricted area lying outside a main range.

Meaning: From the Latin meaning to disjoin, distinct or separate
Latin Pronunciation: dis-JUNK-tum

Meaning: From the Latin meaning to disjoin, distinct or separate
Latin Pronunciation: dis-JUNK-tus

disk

A development of the receptacle at or around the base of the pistil.

disk harrows (alt. disk)

A field implement with disk-shaped blades which break up clods and level soil.

disoperation

Interaction between organisms in which one or all are harmed, as competition of maple seedlings, Acer, results in tall weak growth.

disparate

Unequal, not similar.

Meaning: Unlike
Latin Pronunciation: DIS-par-ee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:DIS-par-ay

disk flower (alt. disc flower)

In Compositae, the tubular flowers of the head, as distinct from the ray.

Meaning: Unlike
Latin Pronunciation: DIS-par-iss

Meaning: Scattered
Latin Pronunciation: dis-PER-suh

dispersal

1. The actual passage of disseminules or organisms from one place to another. 2. The history of the movement of a group of organisms, such as the introduction of zebra mussels into the Great Lakes and down the Mississippi River. See also: migration, establishment, spread.

Meaning: Scattered
Latin Pronunciation: dis-PER-sus

dispersion

1. The pattern of distribution of individuals within a population, especially in prediction of probability. 2. In soil, the breakdown of aggregates, resulting in a single grain structure. Generally the more easily the soil disperses, the more it will erode.

Meaning: Scattered
Latin Pronunciation: dis-PER-sum

disphotic zone

The depth in bodies of water where light is inadequate for photosynthesis but satisfactory for animal life.

Meaning: Resembling the related genus Disporum, the Greek origins of the name refers to the flowers having paired ovules
Latin Pronunciation: dy-spor-OP-sis

Meaning: Dissected
Latin Pronunciation: dy-SEK-tuh

dissected

Cut or divided into numerous lobes or divisions; a deeply cut leaf, the cleft not reaching to the midrib.

Latin Pronunciation: dis-sek-tus
Meaning: deeply cut, dissected.

dissemination

The process by which propagules or organisms are spread.

Meaning: Dissected
Latin Pronunciation: dy-SEK-tum

disseminule

A plant part that can be easily separated from the parent plant, is dispersed, and can grow into a new plant. See also: diaspore.

Meaning: Unlike, different
Latin Pronunciation: dis-SIM-il-ee

dissepiment

A partition in an ovary, pericarp, or fruit.

Meaning: Unlike, different
Latin Pronunciation: dis-SIM-il-iss

Meaning: From the Latin, to disguise or conceal
Latin Pronunciation: dis-sim-YOO-la-tor

Meaning: Having flowers in loose heads, not compact
Latin Pronunciation: dis-sit-ih-FLOR-uh

Meaning: Having flowers in loose heads, not compact
Latin Pronunciation: dis-sit-ih-FLOR-um

Latin Pronunciation: dis-sit-if-f/oh-rus
Meaning: loose- flowered.

Meaning: From the Greek dissos (two-fold), referring to the two types of anthers
Latin Pronunciation: dy-SOH-tis

Meaning: Two spikes
Latin Pronunciation: dy-STAK-yuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-STAY-kee-u

Meaning: Two spikes
Latin Pronunciation: dy-STAK-ee-yos
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-STAY-kee-yos

Meaning: Two spikes
Latin Pronunciation: dy-STAK-yum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dy-STAY-kee-um

Latin Pronunciation: dis-tak-ee-us
Meaning: two spiked.

Latin Pronunciation: diss-tanz
Meaning: separate.

distal

Towards the apex in position.

distant

Similar to parts that are separated and not overlapping.

Meaning: Two-ranked
Latin Pronunciation: DIS-tik-uh

distichous

In two vertical ranks.

Meaning: Two-ranked
Latin Pronunciation: DIS-tik-um

Meaning: From the Greek distichos (two-ranked), referring to the stamens, which are in two whorls
Latin Pronunciation: DIS-tik-lis

Latin Pronunciation: diss-tik-us
Meaning: with leaves or flowers in two ranks on opposite sides of stem (distichous).

Meaning: From the Greek dis (twice) and stiktos (spotted), referring to the flattened seeds which appear as spots on the capsule
Latin Pronunciation: DIS-tik-tis

distinct

Separate; not united; evident.

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning separate, apart, or different
Latin Pronunciation: dis-TINK-tuh

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning separate, apart, or different
Latin Pronunciation: dis-TINK-tum

Meaning: Twisted, distorted, misshapen
Latin Pronunciation: dis-TOR-tum

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning separate, apart, or different
Latin Pronunciation: dis-TINK-tus

Meaning: Twisted, distorted, misshapen
Latin Pronunciation: dis-TOR-ta

Meaning: Twisted, distorted, misshapen
Latin Pronunciation: dis-TOR-tus

distribution

1. The geographic range, continuous or discontinuous, of a plant, animal, or community. 2. Dispersal patterns of occurrence of individuals in a taxon from a certain area, such as a) random distribution, poisson distribution, normal distribution; b) nonrandom above normal distribution, contagious dispersal, over- dispersion, hyperdispersion; and c) nonrandom below normal distribution, hypodispersion, or even-spaced distribution. The terms following each letter are synonyms.

distributary channels

A system of forking streams flowing away from the main stream and not returning to it, as occurs in a delta or on an alluvial plain.

Meaning: From the Greek dis (two) and stylos (style); referring to the two styles
Latin Pronunciation: dis-STY-lee-um

distylous

Refers to a flower with two styles.

Latin Pronunciation: diss-til-us
Meaning: two-styled.

dithecal

Having two pollen sacs or cells.

Meaning: From the Greek dia (thoroughly) and ourein (to urinate); refers to the plant's ability to increase urine flow
Latin Pronunciation: dy-uh-REH-tee-ka

diuretics

Herbal medicines taht can promote the flow of urine.

Latin Pronunciation: dye-urn-us
Meaning: day-flowering.

diurnal

Describes flowers which only open in daylight.

Meaning: From the Greek di- (two) and oura (tail), referring to the twin tail-like sepals
Latin Pronunciation: dy-YOOR-is

Meaning: Pertaining to a day, day-flowering
Latin Pronunciation: dy-YUR-nuh

Meaning: Pertaining to a day, day-flowering
Latin Pronunciation: dy-YUR-num

Meaning: Spreading-fruited
Latin Pronunciation: dy-vair-ee-KAR-puh

Meaning: Spreading, diverging
Latin Pronunciation: dy-vair-ih-KAY-tuh

divaricate

Widely divergent.

Meaning: Spreading, diverging
Latin Pronunciation: dy-vair-ih-KAY-tus

Meaning: Spreading, diverging
Latin Pronunciation: dy-vair-ih-KAY-tum

divergence

The circumstance in which seres of similar origin become less like each other as succession moves toward climax. See also: convergence.

Latin Pronunciation: div-verj-enz
Meaning: wide-spread

divergent

Buds which point away from the twig.

Latin Pronunciation: div-erss-if-fioh-rus
Meaning: variable-flowered.

Meaning: Different (diverse) shaped leaves
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ver-sih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Different (diverse) shaped leaves
Latin Pronunciation: dy-ver-sih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Many shaped lobes
Latin Pronunciation: die-ver-sih-LOW-buh

Meaning: Many shaped lobes
Latin Pronunciation: die-ver-sih-LOW-bum

Latin Pronunciation: div-erss-if-foh-lee-us
Meaning: variable-leaved.

Latin Pronunciation: div-erss-it-/oh-bus
Meaning: diversely lobed.

diversion dam

A barrier constructed for diverting part or all of the water in a streambed into a different watercourse.

diversity index

The mathematical statement calculated by dividing the number of species in a specified area by the number of individuals of all of these species.

divided

Lobed to the base.

Meaning: Divine
Latin Pronunciation: dih-VIN-or-uh

divide

To propagate by division.

Meaning: Divine
Latin Pronunciation: dih-VIN-or-um

Meaning: Divine
Latin Pronunciation: dih-VIN-or-us

divisural line

The line down the teeth of a peristome, through which they split.

division of labor

The specialization of parts of an organism or members of a community for carrying out processes, e.g., various tissues of plants conduct different functions. Worker bees, queens, and drones facilitate food storage and reproduction, while a bird uses its wings for flying and its legs for walking.

division

1. A major taxonomic grouping, ranking just below kingdom and above class. In the animal kingdom, it is usually replaced by the phylum. 2. Method of propagation for clump-forming plants through pulling apart fibrous- rooted clumps. 3. The removal of suckers from a parent plant for the purposes of propagation.

Latin Pronunciation: div-vye-sus
Meaning: divided, separated.

document

In botany systematics, this term can refer to herbarium specimens and equipment, as well as to the standard reference to written materials.

deoxyribonucleic acid (abr. DNA)

The chief material constituting genes and chromosomes.

documentation

In botany systematics, this term refers to all the written material, specimens, equipment, and other elements used as evidence, source of information, or method of obtaining data in taxonomic studies.

documentation system

In botany systematics, this term covers the total strategy for identifying, citing, referencing, substantiating and authenticating, validating, verifying, and vouchering information used for a specific purpose in a taxonomic study.

document retrieval

A more comprehensive term than ' literature retrieval' since it encompasses unpublished materials such as manuscripts, research notes, films, specimens, as well as published literature. See also: data retrieval.

dodder

Any of the annual parasitic wiry twining vines of the genusCuscuta that lack chlorophyll and have tiny scales instead of leaves.

Meaning: An anagram of Cydonia (quince), to which this tree is related and bears a resemblance
Latin Pronunciation: doh-SIGH-nee-uh

Meaning: With twelve stamens
Latin Pronunciation: doh-DEK-an-drum

Meaning: With twelve stamens
Latin Pronunciation: doh-DEK-an-druh

Meaning: Having leaves like Dodonaea (genus named for Rembert Dodoens, 16th century Flemish royal physician, botanist, and professor)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-doh-nee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Named for Calaway H. Dodson, modern-day taxonomist and orchid specialist
Latin Pronunciation: dod-son-ee-AY-na

Meaning: Possibly named for Ignaz Dorfler
Latin Pronunciation: DOOR-fleur-eye

Meaning: Hatchet-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: dol-uh-BRAY-tum

Meaning: With twelve stamens
Latin Pronunciation: doh-DEK-an-drus

Meaning: Hatchet-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: dol-uh-BRAY-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: dol-ab-ray-tus
Meaning: hatchet- shaped.

Meaning: Hatchet-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: doh-la-brih-FOR-me

doldrums

The equatorial belt lying between the two trade wind belts that is characterized by calm or light variable winds and low atmospheric pressure.

Latin Pronunciation: dol-ab-rif-form-iss
Meaning: hatchet-shaped.

Meaning: Long flowered
Latin Pronunciation: doh-lik-AN-thum

Meaning: Long flowered
Latin Pronunciation: doh-lik-AN-tha

Meaning: Long flowered
Latin Pronunciation: doh-lik-AN-thus

Meaning: From the Greek dolichos (long) and phyllon (leaves)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-lik-oh-FIL-uh

Meaning: From the Greek dolichos (long) and lepis (scale)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-lee-koh-LEP-iss

Meaning: From the Greek dolichos (long) and podus (foot or stem, stalk)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-lik-oh-POD-ah

doleiform

Shaped like a barrel.

Meaning: From the Greek dolichos (long) and podus (foot or stem, stalk)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-lik-oh-POD-us

Meaning: Ax-formed
Latin Pronunciation: doh-loh-BRAY-tuh

Meaning: From the Greek dolichos (long) and stemon (thread, stamen)
Latin Pronunciation: dol-ee-koh-STEE-mon

dolomite (adj. dolomitic)

1. A mineral consisting of a calcium magnesium carbonate. 2. Limestone or marble rich in magnesium carbonate.

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning of dolomite (soil)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-loh-MY-tih-kuh

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning of dolomite (soil)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-loh-MY-tih-kum

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning of dolomite (soil)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-loh-MY-tih-kus

Meaning: Deceitful
Latin Pronunciation: do-LOH-suh

Latin Pronunciation: dol-loh-sus
Meaning: deceptive.

Meaning: Deceitful
Latin Pronunciation: do-LOH-sum

domatium (pl. domatia)

A small structure located in the axils of the primary veins on the lower surface of leaves in some woody dicotyledons, usually consisting of depressions and being partly enclosed by leaf tissue or hairs.

Meaning: Named for Joseph Dombey, 18th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: DOM-bee-yuh

Meaning: Latinized form of the Tibetan name for this native plant
Latin Pronunciation: dolt-SOH-puh

domatium (pl. domatia)

A small structure located in the axils of the primary veins on the lower surface of leaves in some woody dicotyledons, usually consisting of depressions and being partly enclosed by leaf tissue or hairs.

Meaning: Named for Joseph Dombey, 18th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: dom-bee-AH-na

Meaning: Named for Joseph Dombey, 18th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: dom-bee-AH-num

Meaning: Named for Joseph Dombey, 18th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: dom-bee-AH-nus

Meaning: Named for Joseph Dombey, 18th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: DOM-bee-eye

Meaning: Of or from the house (domesticated)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-MESS-tik-uh

Meaning: Of or from the house (domesticated)
Latin Pronunciation: doh-MESS-tik-um

Latin Pronunciation: dom-mess-tik-us
Meaning: domestic (or domesticated).

dominant species

A species that exhibits ecologic dominance or social dominance over adjacent ones. See also: secondary species.

Meaning: Of or from Santo Domingo
Latin Pronunciation: doh-ming-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Santo Domingo
Latin Pronunciation: doh-ming-EN-sis

Meaning: Ancient Greek name for this reed plant
Latin Pronunciation: DON-aks

Meaning: Of or from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Latin Pronunciation: do-ming-GOH-uh

donga

A South African term for a gully with steep sides or a dry watercourse.

Latin Pronunciation: dor-ee-see-AY-nuh

Meaning: Intergeneric cross of Doritis and Phalaenopsis
Latin Pronunciation: doh-ry-ten-OP-sis

Meaning: From the Greek dory, a spear; referring to the spear-shaped lip of this orchid
Latin Pronunciation: dor-RY-tis

dormancy

Temporary cessation of growth.

dormant oil (syn. dormant spray)

Viscous solution containing pesticides and/or fungicides and applied to trees and shrubs in late fall and winter while the plant is dormant.

Meaning: Named for Dr. Dorothea Christina van Huyssteen
Latin Pronunciation: dor-uh-THEE-ay

dormant

In the state of suspended growth.

dorsal

Upon or relating to the back or outer surface of an organ.

dorsiventral (alt. dorsoventral)

Having distinct back and front (or upper and lower) surfaces, or placed with reference to the back or front.

dorsifixed

Attached at the back.

Meaning: Named for Theodor Dorsten, 16th century German botanist and medical professor at Marburg
Latin Pronunciation: dor-STEN-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dor-STEE-nee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek dory (spear) and pteris (fern); referring to the shape of the fronds
Latin Pronunciation: dor-ree-OP-ter-iss

Meaning: Named for Etienne Dossin, 19th century French pharmacist and botanist
Latin Pronunciation: doss-IN-ee-uh

double-toothed

Each tooth bearing smaller teeth.

double-worked

Twice grafted. The plant consists of the rootstock, an intermediate scion, and the upper scion.

double citation

The occurence of two names at the end of a taxon, the first name, in parentheses, identifies the author who named the plant originally. The second name CITES the author of the new name.

double (alt. double-flowered)

Having more than the usual number of petals, often arranged in extra rows.

double digging (syn. double trenching)

A method of inverting soil where the richer, top layer of soil of one trench is placed in the bottom of a subsequent trench and covered with the soil of a lower level.

double fertilization

An exclusive process of angiosperms in which one male nucleus pollinates the egg nucleus to form a zygote, which develops into an embryo, while the other male nucleus joins with two other nuclei in the embryo sac to form endosperm, which can be found in corn, Zea mays, and other grasses.

Meaning: Named for David Douglas, 19th century Scottish collector
Latin Pronunciation: dug-lus-ee-AN-uh

Meaning: Named for David Douglas, 19th century Scottish collector
Latin Pronunciation: dug-LUS-ee-eye

down

An undulating, usually treeless upland plain having sparse soil.

downland

An Australian term for temperate grasslands.

downy

Covered with fine hairs.

downy mildew

A fungus forming grayish downy patches, usually on the underside of leaves.

Meaning: Dragon
Latin Pronunciation: DRAY-koh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:DREK-oh

Meaning: From the Greek drakon (dragon) and montana (mountain)
Alternative Meaning:In some cases, may refer to Drakensberg, a mountainous region in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: dray-koh-MON-tah-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dray-koh-mon-TAY-num

Meaning: From the Greek drakon (dragon) and montana (mountain)
Alternative Meaning:In some cases, may refer to Drakensberg, a mountainous region in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: dray-koh-MON-tah-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dray-koh-mon-TAY-nuh

Meaning: From the Greek drakon (dragon) and montana (mountain)
Alternative Meaning:In some cases, may refer to Drakensberg, a mountainous region in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: dray-koh-MON-tah-nus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dray-koh-mon-TAY-nus

Meaning: Dragon-like
Latin Pronunciation: dray-KON-tee-uh

Meaning: Dragon-like
Latin Pronunciation: dray-KON-tee-um

Meaning: Dragon leaves
Latin Pronunciation: drak-oh-FIL-um

Meaning: Dragon-like
Latin Pronunciation: dray-KON-tee-us

Meaning: Dragon leaves
Latin Pronunciation: drak-oh-FIL-us

Meaning: From the Greek draco (dragon)
Latin Pronunciation: DRAY-koh-pis
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:drak-OP-is

Meaning: Dragon leaves
Latin Pronunciation: drak-oh-FIL-uh

Meaning: Resembles dracunculus
Latin Pronunciation: drak-un-kew-LOY-deez
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:drak-un-kul-OY-deez

Meaning: Diminutive form of draco (dragon)
Latin Pronunciation: DRAK-yoo-luh

Meaning: Little dragon
Latin Pronunciation: drak-UN-koo-lie

drainage basin

Any of the largest natural subdivisions of the watersheds of a continent, such as the Mississippi, Columbia, and Colorado basins of North America.

drainage terrace

A graded embankment constructed with a relatively deep channel and low ridge, primarily for the runoff discharge from a hillside.

Meaning: Named for 19th cenury botanical illustrator, Miss Sarah Ann Drake
Latin Pronunciation: DRAY-kee-uh

Meaning: Named for Miss Drake, 19th century English botanical illustrator
Latin Pronunciation: DRAKE-ee-uh

draw

A land basin into which water drains; a small valley or swale.

drawdown

The process of partially or completely lowering the water from a wetland with pumps or other mechanical devices. The purpose of drawdown is to manage vegetation and wildlife.

Meaning: Named for Johann Franz (or Frantz) Dr?ge, 19th century German-born botanical collector and horticulturist
Latin Pronunciation: DRAY-gee-eye
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:DREG-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Johann Franz (or Frantz) Dr?ge, 19th century German-born botanical collector and horticulturist
Latin Pronunciation: DRAY-gee-uh

drepanium

A floral cyme shaped like a sickle.

dried flowers

Desiccated blossoms which retain shape and color over a long period of time, especially for winter arrangements.

driers

Blotters, newsprint or other materials which absorb moisture from plants in plant presses.

Meaning: Named for Dr. John Dransfield, Kew's palm specialist
Latin Pronunciation: drans-FEELD-ee-eye

dressing

Fertilizing on site while plants are growing, as top dressing or side dressing, especially with organic compost or minerals.

driftage

Driftwood and other flotsam.

drift

In geology, material which is deposited in an area after coming from another area, most commonly in reference to glacial drift. See also: till, loess, boulder-clay, drumlin.

drift barrier

An open structure, like a wire fence, constructed across a stream channel to catch driftwood.

drift fence

A fence constructed to prevent livestock from wandering from their allotted range to another one, often used as an extension of natural barriers such as large rivers and cliffs.

driftwood

Any wood from trees or structures which has floated in water.

drift ice

Parts of icebergs in the open sea beyond the areas of pack ice.

Meaning: From the Greek word for acrid, referring to the bulbs, which are can irritate skin when handled
Latin Pronunciation: DRY-mee-a

drill seeding

Sowing seeds with an agricultural implement which makes furrows into which it drops seeds. See also: broadcast seeding.

drip irrigation (syn. bubbler irrigation)

A method of irrigation where tubes or hoses, sometimes porous, are brought close to plants and water is allowed to trickle out at a very slow, but constant rate.

drip point (alt. drip-point, alt. drip-tip)

1. A leaf tip with an extension-- acuminate, caudate, aristate--from which water drips during wet conditions. 2. A long drooping tip on leaves, particularly those of rain forest trees.

Meaning: Bearing a resemblance to Drimia, a related genus
Latin Pronunciation: drim-ee-OP-sis

drip line

The line that could be drawn on the ground under a tree beneath the outermost tips of the branches. Rain flows off the tree at this point, so it is the area where roots congregate and the best point to place fertilizer, water, etc.

drip zone

The area around the base of a tree that lies below and within the circumference of the branches, etc., which forms its crown.

drooping

Erect at the base, but with the top part bending downward.

drive

The network of internal and external states and stimuli that leads to a certain behavior in an animal.

Meaning: From the Greek drosos (dew) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: dross-oh-FIL-um

Meaning: Resembles Drosera (genus name meaning dewy)
Latin Pronunciation: dro-ser-OY-deez

drought resistance (n. drought resistant)

The capability of an organism to survive extended dry periods with little or no injury. See also: xeric.

drought

A period of dryness; especially one that causes extensive damage to plants.

drought tolerant

Capable of surviving for extended periods with little or no rainfall.

drumlin

An elongated or oval hill made up of glacial drifts, usually compact and not stratified, and often with the longer sides parallel to the movement of the glacier when the soil is dropped.

Meaning: Named for Thomas Drummond, 19th century Scottish naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: drum-mond-ee-AH-nuh

Meaning: Named for Thomas Drummond, 19th century Scottish naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: drum-mond-ee-AH-nus

Meaning: Named for Thomas Drummond, 19th century Scottish naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: drum-AWN-dee-eye

drupaceous

Resembling or of the nature of a drupe.

Meaning: From the Greek druppa (overripe olive), referring to plants with fleshy fruit
Latin Pronunciation: droo-PAY-see-uh

Meaning: From the Greek druppa (overripe olive), referring to plants with fleshy fruit
Latin Pronunciation: droo-PAY-see-um

Latin Pronunciation: drew-pay-see-us
Meaning: with

drupe

A fleshy or pulpy fruit with the inner portion of the pericarp (1- celled and 1- seeded, or sometimes several-celled) hard or stony.

drupelet

A diminutive drupe.

Meaning: Bearing drupes (from the Greek druppa, an overripe olive), referring to plants with fleshy fruit
Latin Pronunciation: DROO-pif-er

Meaning: Bearing drupes (from the Greek druppa, an overripe olive), referring to plants with fleshy fruit
Latin Pronunciation: droo-PIF-er-uh

Latin Pronunciation: drew-pif-er-us
Meaning: bearing drupes.

Meaning: Named for Jonas Dryander, 18th century Swedish botanist, author and librarian to Sir Joseph Banks
Latin Pronunciation: dry-AN-druh

Meaning: Named for Jacob Andrew Drushel, early 20th century American botanist
Latin Pronunciation: dru-SHEL-ee-eye

drying frame

A structure, usually collapsible for easy transport, which holds plant specimens open to air and natural or artificial heat for rapid drying, thus preserving color and preventing mildew.

Meaning: From the Greek drymos (forest)
Latin Pronunciation: dry-MAR-ee-a

Meaning: Wood bark
Latin Pronunciation: dry-MOH-flee-us

Meaning: From the Greek dryas, referring to the oak-shaped fronds
Latin Pronunciation: dry-NAR-ee-uh

Meaning: From Greek dryos (tree) and poa (grass), from the tall habit of the only species
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dry-OH-poh-uh

dry farming

1. Agricultural operations in semiarid or arid regions without the use of irrigation. 2. A system of cultivation making heavy use of mulch and fallow periods to absorb and retain much of the rainfall.

Meaning: From the Greek drymos (forest) and philos (loving); referring to its favoured habitat
Latin Pronunciation: dry-moh-FY-luh

dry stone

Building in stone without mortar.

dry wall

A wall built without the use of concrete, e.g., a stone wall.

Meaning: Latinized form of Hindu vernacular name
Latin Pronunciation: doo-uh-BAN-guh

Meaning: Dubious, uncharacteristic
Latin Pronunciation: DOO-bee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:duh-BEE-uh

Meaning: Dubious, uncharacteristic
Latin Pronunciation: DOO-bee-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:duh-BEE-um

Latin Pronunciation: dew-bee-us
Meaning: doubtful (of origin or type).

Meaning: named for Charles Du Bois, 18th century merchant and treasurer to the Honourable East India Company, and collector who amassed an herbarium which now resides at Oxford
Latin Pronunciation: du-BOIS-ee-a

Meaning: Named for 19th century Frenchman Pierre Etienne Duchartre, author of the classicalObservations on the Genus Lilium.
Latin Pronunciation: doo-KAR-tray
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:duh-KAR-try

Meaning: Named for Fran?ois Ducloux, early 20th century plant hunter in Yunnan
Latin Pronunciation: doo-kloo-ee-AH-na

duckfoot

An agricultural implement with horizontal V-shaped blades that cultivate just below the surface of the soil without turning it over or burying crop residues.

Meaning: Named for William Russel Dudley, 19th century botany professor at Stanford University in California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: DUD-lee-yuh

Meaning: Named for Fran?ois Ducloux, early 20th century plant hunter in Yunnan
Latin Pronunciation: doo-KLOO-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for William Russel Dudley, 19th century botany professor at Stanford University in California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: dud-lee-AH-nuh

Meaning: Named for William Russel Dudley, 19th century botany professor at Stanford University in California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: DUD-lee-eye

duff

The partially decayed leaves, branches, etc., on a forest floor.

Meaning: From the Latin amar (bitter) and dulcis (sweet); bittersweet
Latin Pronunciation: dool-kah-MAH-rah

Meaning: Named for Dugald Stewart, 19th century Scottish philosopher and explorer
Latin Pronunciation: doo-GAL-dee-uh

Meaning: An interspecific hybrid, dulcia (sweet) and citreus lemon yellow)
Latin Pronunciation: dul-SEE-uh SIT-ree-us

Meaning: Sweet, tender
Latin Pronunciation: DUL-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:DUL-say

Meaning: Sweet, tender
Latin Pronunciation: DUL-see-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dul-SEE-uh

Meaning: Very sweet
Latin Pronunciation: dul-SIF-ih-kuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dul-KEE-fih-kuh

Latin Pronunciation: dull-siss
Meaning: sweet.

Latin Pronunciation: dew-met-toh-rum
Meaning: of bushes or hedges.

Meaning: Very sweet
Latin Pronunciation: dul-SIF-ih-kus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dul-KEE-fih-kus

Meaning: Of or from Doulikhion (Dolicha, Doliche); in Greek mythology, an Echinadian Island at the entrance to the Gulf of Corinth
Latin Pronunciation: dyoo-LEE-kee-um

Meaning: Very sweet
Latin Pronunciation: dul-SIF-ih-kum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dul-KEE-fih-kum

Meaning: Named for Barth?lemy Charles Joseph Dumortier, 19th century Belgian botanist, author and academician
Latin Pronunciation: dyoo-MOR-tee-er-ee

Meaning: Bushy, shrubby
Latin Pronunciation: doo-MO-suh

Meaning: Living in thickets or shrubs
Latin Pronunciation: doo-MEE-koh-lum

Meaning: Living in thickets or shrubs
Latin Pronunciation: doo-MEE-koh-la

Latin Pronunciation: dew-moh-sus
Meaning: bushy.

Meaning: Named for Michel Felix Dunal, 19th century French botanist and professor of botany in Montpellier
Latin Pronunciation: dun-AY-lee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:doo-NAY-lee-uh

Meaning: Bushy, shrubby
Latin Pronunciation: doo-MO-sum

dune sand

1. An area of tiny rock particles accumulated by wind action into mounds or hummocks, generally with little or no vegetation and undergoing continual redeposition. 2. Refers to rock particles with diameters of 0.1 to 0.4 mm. which have been heaped up by the wind, even if found far underground.

dune

A generally unstable mound or ridge of sand built up by winds, most common in deserts and along shores.

dune grass

Various species of Graminae with long roots, adapted to living on dry sand and used to stabilize dunes.

dung

Feces, animal droppings, scat.

Latin Pronunciation: dew-plex
Meaning: double.

Meaning: To double
Latin Pronunciation: doo-plih-KAH-ta

Meaning: To double
Latin Pronunciation: doo-plih-KAH-tum

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning hard or tough; enduring
Latin Pronunciation: DUR-a
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:DOO-ra

duplicate

Folded twice.

Latin Pronunciation: dew-plik-kay-tus
Meaning: double, doubled (duplicate).

Latin Pronunciation: dew-rass-in-us
Meaning: hard berried.

Latin Pronunciation: dew-rab-il-iss
Meaning: lasting, durable.

Meaning: Of or from Durango, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: dur-rang-EN-sis

Meaning: Of or from Durango, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: dur-rang-EN-see

duriherbosa

Vegetation that has perennial roots, but whose tops die back each winter, like those of grasslands.

Meaning: Tough, enduring
Latin Pronunciation: DOO-ree-or

Meaning: Somewhat hard (harder)
Latin Pronunciation: doo-ree-US-kew-luh

Meaning: Somewhat hard (harder)
Latin Pronunciation: doo-ree-US-kew-lum

Latin Pronunciation: dew-ree-us
Meaning: rather hard or tough.

Meaning: Hard spines
Latin Pronunciation: doo-ree-SPIN-uh

dust

1. n. A powdered chemical poison to kill insects or disease. 2. v. To apply the powder.

durilignosa

Woody perennial vegetation with broad hard leaves, like chaparral.

Meaning: Somewhat hard (harder)
Latin Pronunciation: doo-ree-US-kew-lus

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning hard or tough; enduring
Latin Pronunciation: DUr-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:DOO-rum

dust devil (alt. dust whirl, syn. remolino)

An intensely whirling column of air caused by a bubble of hot air caught between two cooler layers of air. Dust devils range from a foot to a mile high (30 cm. to 1.5 km.) mostly in arid regions; they spin dust and debris but can also shake houses and slam birds into trees.

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning hard or tough; enduring
Latin Pronunciation: DUR-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:DOO-rus

Dutch elm disease

A fungus spread by bark beetles that causes wilting and dieback on elms.

dust mulch

Keeping the surface of the soil from caking by repeatedly working it loose, preventing the germination of weed seeds.

dust devil (alt. dust whirl, syn. remolino)

An intensely whirling column of air caused by a bubble of hot air caught between two cooler layers of air. Dust devils range from a foot to a mile high (30 cm. to 1.5 km.) mostly in arid regions; they spin dust and debris but can also shake houses and slam birds into trees.

Meaning: Named for its similarity to the genus Duvalia
Latin Pronunciation: doo-val-ee-AN-druh

Meaning: Named for Henri Auguste Duval, early 19th century French doctor
Latin Pronunciation: doo-VAL-ee-uh

dwarf

1. A plant that, due to an inherited characteristic, is shorter or slower growing than normal forms. 2. Dahlia varieties which normally do not produce plant growth over 24 inches in height.

Meaning: Resembles Dyckia, genus named for Prince Joseph Salm-Reifferscheid-Dyck, 19th century botanist and author of book on succulents
Latin Pronunciation: dy-kee-OY-deez
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:dik-ee-OY-deez

Meaning: Named for Sir William Turner Thiselton-Dyer, early 19th century botanist, horticulturist and director of Kew Gardens
Latin Pronunciation: dy-er-ee-AN-um

Meaning: Named for Sir William Turner Thiselton-Dyer, early 19th century botanist, horticulturist and director of Kew Gardens
Latin Pronunciation: dy-er-ee-AN-us

Meaning: Named for Sir William Turner Thiselton-Dyer, early 19th century botanist, horticulturist and director of Kew Gardens
Latin Pronunciation: dy-er-ee-AN-uh

Meaning: From the Greek dys (with difficulty) and choristos (separated); referring to the valves of the capsules adhering together
Latin Pronunciation: dis-kor-RISS-tee

dynamic equilibrium

A system that retains much the same condition because of the action of opposing forces which proceed at more or less equal rates. See also: balance of nature.

Meaning: Named by Linnaeus from the Greek word for dysentery, referring to the plant's ability to treat this intestinal disease
Latin Pronunciation: dis-en-TER-ee-kuh

Meaning: Of unknown derivation
Latin Pronunciation: DIP-sis

Meaning: From the Greek dys (bad, difficult) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: dis-oh-FIL-a

Meaning: From the Greek dys (bad) and osme (smell)
Latin Pronunciation: dis-OHS-ma

Meaning: From the Greek dys (bad, difficult) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: dis-oh-FIL-us

Meaning: From the Greek dys (bad) and xylon (wood), referring to the unpleasant smell
Latin Pronunciation: dis-oh-ZY-lum

dysgenic (alt. eugenics)

Refers to detrimental influences on the genetic properties of a community or population.

dystrophic

1. Relates to or is caused by faulty nutrition. 2. Refers to a lake with high humus material, sparse bottom fauna, and low dissolved oxygen.

Meaning: From Greek dysodia, disagreeable odor
Latin Pronunciation: dis-so-dee-uh

D horizon

The soil layer below the effect of weathering, made up of undifferentiated and unconsolidated parent materials, located immediately below the c horizon.