caatinga

The area of northeastern Brazil covered with thorn scrub.

Meaning: From the Spanish word for the fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kuh-BOM-buh

cabling

Connecting tree limbs with steel cable to alleviate ice storm damage.

Meaning: According to Linnaeus, an ancient name of uncertain meaning
Latin Pronunciation: ka-KAL-ee-uh

Meaning: Possibly referring to the Kabul (Afghanistan) region
Latin Pronunciation: ka-BUL-ee-kuh

Meaning: Alternate spelling of cacaliaefolia, (having leaves like Cacalia)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-kal-ee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Resembling Cacalia
Latin Pronunciation: ka-kal-ee-OY-deez

Meaning: Olmec or Mayan word for chocolate
Latin Pronunciation: kah-KAY-oh

Meaning: Having leaves like Cacalia; also spelled cacaliifolia
Latin Pronunciation: ka-kal-ee-ay-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Of Kashmir, a mountain region north of Pakistan
Latin Pronunciation: kash-MY-rik-uh

Meaning: The Cactus family
Latin Pronunciation: kak-TAY-see-ay

cactiform

With succulent stems similar to Cactaceae.

cactiform

With succulent stems similar to Cactaceae.

Meaning: Shaped like a cactus
Latin Pronunciation: kak-TIF-for-mee

Meaning: Shaped like a cactus
Latin Pronunciation: kak-TIF-for-miss

Meaning: Cactus dweller; referring to the fact the species is sometimes found growing on cactus in its native habitat
Latin Pronunciation: kak-tih-KOH-la

cactoid

Resembling a cactus.

cactus (pl. cacti)

A member of the family Cactaceae, having succulent stems and branches with scales or spines instead of leaves and found primarily in arid regions.

Meaning: Falling, referring to the plant's habit
Latin Pronunciation: KAY-denz

Meaning: Named for RP Cadiere, early 20th century plant collector in Vietnam
Latin Pronunciation: kad-ee-AIR-eye

Meaning: Metallic or tin appearance
Latin Pronunciation: KAD-my-kuh

Meaning: Metallic or tin appearance
Latin Pronunciation: KAD-my-kus

Meaning: Metallic or tin appearance
Latin Pronunciation: KAD-my-kum

Meaning: Falling early, referring to drooping sepals or petals
Latin Pronunciation: KAD-uh-ka
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KAY-du-kuh

Meaning: Dark blue
Latin Pronunciation: see-ROO-lee-uh

caducous

Falling off very early, usually applied to flower parts.

Meaning: Falling early, referring to drooping sepals or petals
Latin Pronunciation: KAD-uh-kum

Latin Pronunciation: see-rew-less-senz
Meaning: turning or becoming dark blue.

Meaning: Falling early, referring to drooping sepals or petals
Latin Pronunciation: KAD-uh-kus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KAY-du-kus

Latin Pronunciation: see-rew-lee-us
Meaning: dark blue.

Meaning: Dark blue
Latin Pronunciation: see-ROO-lee-um

Meaning: Light blue
Latin Pronunciation: KESS-ee-uh

Meaning: Blue and glaucous
Latin Pronunciation: kess-ih-GLAW-kuh

Meaning: Blue and glaucous
Latin Pronunciation: kess-ih-GLAW-kum

Meaning: Blue and glaucous
Latin Pronunciation: kess-ih-GLAW-kus

Meaning: Light blue
Latin Pronunciation: KESS-ee-um

Latin Pronunciation: see-see-us
Meaning: blue-gray.

Meaning: Tufted
Latin Pronunciation: kess-pi-TOH-sum

Meaning: Tufted
Latin Pronunciation: kess-pi-TOH-suh

Latin Pronunciation: seess-pit-toh-sus
Meaning: tufted, growing in low clumps (cespitose).

Meaning: Latinized form of Arabic kafir (unbeliever, pagan), referring to origin in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: KAF-fer

Meaning: Latinized form of Arabic kafir (unbeliever, pagan), referring to origin in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: KAF-ree

Meaning: Latinized form of Arabic kafir (unbeliever, pagan), referring to origin in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: KAF-fra

Meaning: Latinized form of Arabic kafir (unbeliever, pagan), referring to origin in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: KAF-ror-um

Meaning: Pertaining to the Rio Caine region of Bolivia
Latin Pronunciation: KANE-ee-ah-na

Meaning: Latinized form of Arabic kafir (unbeliever, pagan), referring to origin in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: KAF-rum

Meaning: West Indian vernacular name for the star apple
Latin Pronunciation: kay-NY-toh

caingin clearing

A term used in southeast Asia for an area which has been cleared so that it can be used for farming.

Meaning: Of or from Cairo (Egypt)
Latin Pronunciation: KY-rik-uh

Meaning: Of or from Cairo (Egypt)
Latin Pronunciation: KY-rik-um

Meaning: Of or from Cairo (Egypt)
Latin Pronunciation: KY-rik-us

cairn

Piled stones used as a landmark or memorial.

Meaning: Named for William Cairns, 19th century governor of Queensland, Australia
Latin Pronunciation: KAIRNS-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for William Cairns, 19th century governor of Queensland, Australia
Latin Pronunciation: kairns-ee-AY-na

Meaning: Named for William Cairns, 19th century governor of Queensland, Australia
Latin Pronunciation: kairns-ee-AY-num

Meaning: Having leaves like Cajanus (the Genus name for the Pigeon Pea)
Latin Pronunciation: kaj-an-ih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: From the Malay vernacular name for the Pigeon Pea
Latin Pronunciation: KAJ-an

Meaning: Having leaves like Cajanus (the Genus name for the Pigeon Pea)
Latin Pronunciation: kaj-an-ih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having leaves like Cajanus (the Genus name for the Pigeon Pea)
Latin Pronunciation: kaj-an-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: An old Arabic name for the plant
Latin Pronunciation: kah-KIL-ee

Meaning: Leaves resemble Cakile genus (Sea Rocket)
Latin Pronunciation: kah-kil-ee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: West Indian vernacular name for Calophyllum calaba
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LAH-bruh

Meaning: Of or from Calabria, Italy
Latin Pronunciation: ka-la-BRIK-um

Latin Pronunciation: kal-lab-rik-us
Meaning: of Calabria (in Italy).

Meaning: Of or from Calabria, Italy
Latin Pronunciation: ka-la-BRIK-uh

Meaning: From the Greek kalos (beautiful) and aden (gland)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-uh-DEE-nee-uh

Meaning: Reed grass
Latin Pronunciation: ka-la-mo-GROSS-tis

Meaning: Having reed-like foliage
Latin Pronunciation: kal-am-ih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having reed-like foliage
Latin Pronunciation: kal-am-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Reed grass
Latin Pronunciation: ka-la-mo-GROSS-tis

Meaning: Having reed-like foliage
Latin Pronunciation: kal-am-ih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: From the Greek for beautiful mint
Latin Pronunciation: kal-uh-MIN-tha

Meaning: From the Greek kalamos (reed) and phyllon (leaf), referring to the slender leaves
Latin Pronunciation: kal-am-oh-FIL-lum

Meaning: From the Greek kalamos (reed) and Vilfa (a genus of grass)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-uh-moh-VIL-fuh

Meaning: From the Greek kalamos, meaning reed
Latin Pronunciation: KAL-uh-mus

Meaning: Named for Jean Louis Calandrini, 19th century Swiss professor and botanical author
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lan-DREEN-ee-uh

Meaning: Like Calindrina
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lan-DREEN-ee-oy-deez

Meaning: From the Greek kalathos (basket); basket-like
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ath-EYE-nuh

Meaning: From the Greek kalathos (basket); basket-like
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ath-EYE-num

Latin Pronunciation: kal-ath-eye-nus
Meaning: basketlike.

calcarate

Produced into or having a spur.

Latin Pronunciation: kal-kar-ray-tus
Meaning: with spurs.

Meaning: Provided with a spur
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ka-RAY-tum

calcareous

Containing calcium or calcium carbonate ( lime), as an alkaline soil.

Meaning: Of chalky land
Latin Pronunciation: kal-KAR-ee-uh

Meaning: Provided with a spur
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ka-RAY-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: kal-kay-ree-us
Meaning: pertaining to lime.

calcareous ooze

Partially decomposed organic matter mixed with a quantity of calcareous material on the bottom of some bodies of water.

Meaning: Of chalky land
Latin Pronunciation: kal-KAR-ee-um

Meaning: From the Latin meaning lime (limestone)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-KAR-ee-um

Meaning: Slipper-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kal-kee-ih-FOR-miss

Meaning: Slipper-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kal-kee-ih-FOR-mee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-see-ih-FOR-mee

Meaning: Small shoe
Latin Pronunciation: kal-KEE-oh-luh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-see-OH-luh

Meaning: Slipper-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ke-oh-LAH-tus

Meaning: Slipper-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ke-oh-LAH-tum

Meaning: Slipper-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ke-oh-LAH-tuh

Meaning: Small shoe
Latin Pronunciation: kal-KEE-oh-lum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-see-OH-lum

Meaning: Dweller on limey soil
Latin Pronunciation: kal-SY-koh-luh

Meaning: Small shoe
Latin Pronunciation: kal-KEE-oh-lus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-see-OH-lus

calcicole

A plant adapted to growing on limestone or alkaline soil.

Meaning: Dweller on limey soil
Latin Pronunciation: kal-SY-koh-lum

Meaning: Dweller on limey soil
Latin Pronunciation: kal-SY-koh-lus

calcification

A soil process where the surface soil is combined with calcium by the decomposition of plants, especially if a calcareous layer is formed. See also: podzolization.

calcination

Decomposition due to the loss of bound water and carbon dioxide.

calciphile

A plant that must have lime or alkaline soil.

calcine

Like a calyx, or belonging to the calyx.

calcifuge

A plant that does not grow well in lime or alkaline soil.

Meaning: Lime-loving
Latin Pronunciation: kal-SIF-fy-lum

Meaning: Lime-loving
Latin Pronunciation: kal-SIF-fy-lus

calciphobe

A plant preferring alkaline soils; an acidophilous plant.

Meaning: From the Medieval Latin calcatrippa (thistle), a compound of calyx (heel) or calcare (to tread), and trapa, a Germanic word meaning trap
Latin Pronunciation: kal-kee-TRAH-puh

Meaning: Lime-loving
Latin Pronunciation: kal-SIF-fy-luh

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning pebble or stone
Latin Pronunciation: KAL-kyoo-lus

Meaning: Named for Francisco Jos? de Caldas, 19th century Columbian naturalist and explorer
Latin Pronunciation: kal-DAZ-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for Francisco Jos? de Caldas, 19th century Columbian naturalist and explorer
Latin Pronunciation: kal-DAZ-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Alexander Caldleugh, 19th century traveller in South America
Latin Pronunciation: kald-KLOO-vee-uh

caldera

A large crater formed by the collapse of the central part of a volcanic cone.

Meaning: named for George Caley, 19th century Scottish botanist who collected plants in New South Wales
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-AN-uh

Meaning: Of or from New Caledonia, a French territory in the South Pacific near Australia
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lid-oh-NEN-sis

Meaning: Of or from New Caledonia, a French territory in the South Pacific near Australia
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lid-oh-NEN-see

Meaning: Resembling Calendula
Latin Pronunciation: kal-en-dew-LAY-see-uh

Meaning: Resembling Calendula
Latin Pronunciation: kal-en-dew-LAY-see-um

Latin Pronunciation: kal-en-dew-lay-see-us
Meaning: brilliant yellow-orange (Calendulalike).

Meaning: Having flowers like Calendula (Pot Marigold)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-len-dew-lih-FLOR-uh

Meaning: Named for Antonio de la Cal y Bracho, 19th century Mexican botanist and pharmacologist
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-BRAK-oh-uh

Meaning: Named for Caliban, the beast-like monster who was Prosperos' slave in Shakespeare'sThe Tempest
Latin Pronunciation: kal-IB-an-us

calicole

A plant living on chalky or limy soils.

caliche

1. A crumbly crust of calcium carbonate formed on a stony base in arid climates. 2. A term used in Chile and Peru for deposits of sodium nitrate.

Latin Pronunciation: kal-if-forn-ik-us
Meaning: of California.

Meaning: Named for Professor Luigi Califano, 20th century botanist and collector of Cycads
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-FAH-no-eye

Meaning: Of or from California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lee-FOR-nee-ah-kuh

Meaning: Of or from California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lee-FOR-nee-ah-kus

Meaning: Of or from California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ih-FOR-nik-uh

Meaning: Of or from California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ih-FOR-nik-us

Meaning: Of or from California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lee-FOR-nee-ah-kum

Meaning: Foggy, misty places
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lee-gin-OH-suh

Meaning: Of or from California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ih-FOR-nik-um

Meaning: Foggy, misty places
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lee-gin-OH-sum

Meaning: Foggy, misty places
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lee-gin-OH-sus

caliper

1. An instrument used to measure the diameter of a tree, or other object. 2. The measurement thus attained, usually at breast height.

Meaning: Named for Joseph Callery, 19th century French missionary in China
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lee-ree-AH-nuh

Latin Pronunciation: kaf-fer
Meaning: pertaining to the Kafirs (South Africa).

calli

Small outgrowths on the throat of the corolla of some plants, often acting as tactile guides for pollinators.

Meaning: Beautifully flowered
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lee-ANTH-uh

Meaning: Beautiful flower
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ly-AN-thee-muh

Meaning: Beautifully flowered
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lee-ANTH-us

Meaning: Beautiful flower
Latin Pronunciation: kaly-an-THEE-mus

Meaning: Beautifully flowered
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lee-ANTH-um

Meaning: Beautiful flower
Latin Pronunciation: kaly-an-THEE-mum

Meaning: With beautiful fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KAR-pay-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ih-KAR-pay-uh

Meaning: With beautiful fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KAR-pay-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ih-KAR-pay-um

Meaning: With beautiful fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KAR-pay-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ih-KAR-pay-us

Meaning: Beautiful dry thing (husk, ripe fruit, etc.)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KAR-fuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ih-KAR-fuh

Meaning: Beautiful seeded
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KAR-pum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ih-KAR-pum

Meaning: Beautiful dry thing (husk, ripe fruit, etc.)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KAR-fum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ih-KAR-fum

Meaning: Beautiful seeded
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KAR-pus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ih-KAR-pus

Meaning: Beautiful dry thing (husk, ripe fruit, etc.)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KAR-fus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ih-KAR-fus

Meaning: Clever, shrewd
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LEE-da
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KAL-id-a

Meaning: From Greek kalos (beauty) and kome (hair) referring to the attractive fluffy flower heads
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ih-KOH-muh

Meaning: Beautiful scales
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-LEP-iss

Meaning: Beautifully shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lee-MOR-fuh

Meaning: Beautifully shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lee-MOR-fum

Meaning: Clever, shrewd
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LEE-dus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KAL-id-us

Meaning: Beautifully shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lee-MOR-fus

Meaning: From the Greek kallos (beauty)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LIZ-ee-uh

Meaning: Beautiful spikes
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lis-STAY-kee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek kallos (beautiful) and stachys (flower spike)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lee-STAK-iss
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-lee-STAY-kiss

Meaning: Beautiful spike
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lis-STAY-kee-um

Meaning: Very beautiful
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LIS-tuh

Meaning: Beautiful spike
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lis-STAY-kee-us

Meaning: Resembling Calystegia (from the Greek kalyx and stegon, cover; referring to the bracts that conceal the calyx)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lis-steg-ee-OY-deez

Meaning: Very beautiful
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LIS-tum

Meaning: From the Greek kalli (beautiful) and thrix (hair), referring to the beautiful stems
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LIT-rik-ee

Meaning: Very beautiful
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LIS-tus

Meaning: Beautiful zoned (banded)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ih-ZOH-nuh

Meaning: Beautifully zoned (banded)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ih-ZOH-num

Meaning: Beautifully zoned (banded)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ih-ZOH-nus

callosity

A hardened thickening.

Meaning: Calloused, thick
Latin Pronunciation: kal-OH-suh

Latin Pronunciation: kal-loh-sus
Meaning: thick-skinned, having callosities.

Meaning: Calloused, thick
Latin Pronunciation: kal-OH-sum

callus (adj. callose)

1. A hard protuberance or callosity, sometimes resulting from a wound. 2. In the grasses, the tough often hairy swelling at the base or insertion of the lemma.

calmative

An herbal medicine that contains a mild sedative or has a calming effect.

Meaning: Beautiful Cedar
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-SEE-druss
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-oh-SED-russ

Meaning: Beautiful head, referring to the flower
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-SEF-uh-luh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-oh-KEF-uh-luh

Meaning: Beautiful head, referring to the flower
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-SEF-uh-lum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-oh-KEF-uh-lum

Meaning: From the Greek kalos (beautiful) and chlaena (cloak, covering), from the covering of soft hairs which clothe the ferns
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-KLAY-nuh

Meaning: From Greek kalos (beautiful) and cheilos (lip), referring to the attractive labellum
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-KY-lus

Meaning: Beautiful hair
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-KOH-muh

Meaning: From the Greek calo (beautiful) and melanos (black, dark coloured)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lo-MEL-an-os

Meaning: Greek kalos (beautiful) and meris (a part), an oblique, complimentary reference to Napoleon Bonaparte
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-MEER-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek kalos (beautiful) and phyllon (leaf), referring to the beautifully-veined leaves of the Calaba tree
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-FIL-lum

Meaning: From the Greek kalos (beautiful) and opsis (sight)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-OP-sis

Meaning: From the Greek kalos (beautiful) and skordon (garlic)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-SKOR-dum

Meaning: From the Greek kalos (beautiful) and stemma (crown)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-STEM-uh

Meaning: From the Greek kalos (beautiful) and thursos (in Greek mythology, a rod or wand tipped with a pine cone, usually referring to a dense panicle)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-oh-THUR-sus

Meaning: From the Greek kalos (beautiful) and tropis (ship), referring to
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LOW-troh-pis

Meaning: From the Greek: kalos (beautiful) and otos (ear), a reference to the elaborate pappus scales of the first-named species
Latin Pronunciation: kal-OH-tis

Meaning: Urn-tree, referring to the shape of the fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kal-po-DEN-dron

Meaning: Named for T. Julius Calpurnius, a first century poet who imitated Virgil
Latin Pronunciation: kal-PUR-nee-uh

Meaning: Bald, hairless
Latin Pronunciation: KAL-va

Meaning: Becoming bald or naked
Latin Pronunciation: kal-VES-enz

Meaning: Having hairless leaves
Latin Pronunciation: kal-vee-FOH-lee-ah

Calvin cycle

The cycle of dark reactions of photosynthesis that occurs in the chloroplasts and involves the fixation of carbon dioxide and the formation of a six-carbon sugar.

Meaning: Bald, hairless
Latin Pronunciation: KAL-vum

Latin Pronunciation: kal-vus
Meaning: hairless.

Meaning: Resembles Calycera
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KER-OY-deez

Meaning: From Greek kalyx (calyx) and anthos, (flower); referring to the similarity between the sepals and petals
Latin Pronunciation: kakal-ee-KAN-tha
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-uh-KAN-tha

Meaning: Possibly from the Greek kalyx (calyx) and keras (horn, spine); spiny calyx
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KER-a
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ee-SER-a

calycine

Refers to a part of the calyx, or something that is like a calyx.

Meaning: Resembling calycinus (having a persistent or conspicuous calyx)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lee-kin-OY-deez

Meaning: Having a persistent (or conspicuous) calyx
Latin Pronunciation: ka-LEE-kin-uh

Meaning: Having a persistent (or conspicuous) calyx
Latin Pronunciation: ka-LEE-kin-um

Latin Pronunciation: kal-Liss-in-us
Meaning: calyx-like.

Meaning: Kalyx (covering; calyx) and phyllum (leaves)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-koh-FIL-um

calycle (alt. calyculus)

The epicalyx, a second calyx or involucre beneath the true calyx.

Meaning: Remarkable covering
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KOH-sa

Meaning: Remarkable covering
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KOH-sum

calyculate

Having bracts around the calyx or involucre imitating an outer calyx.

Meaning: Remarkable covering
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-KOH-sus

Latin Pronunciation: kal-ik-yew-lay-tus
Meaning: hav

Meaning: From the Greek calyx and lophus (crest)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-LOW-fus

Meaning: From the Greek kalyx (calyx) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-FIL-a

Meaning: From the Greek kalyx (calyx) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-FIL-us

Meaning: With hooded fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ip-toe-KAR-puh

Meaning: With hooded fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ip-toe-KAR-pus

Meaning: With hooded fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ip-toe-KAR-pum

calyptra

A lid or hood. In mosses, the thin veil or hood covering the mouth of the capsule.

Meaning: Cap-like
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lip-TRAY-tum

calyptrate

Having a calyptra.

Meaning: Cap-like
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lip-TRAY-tuh

Meaning: Cap-like
Latin Pronunciation: kal-lip-TRAY-tus

Meaning: Covered (covering) calyx
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lip-tro-KAL-iks

Meaning: From the Greek kaluptos (covered) and gyne (woman)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-lip-tro-GY-nee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ka-lip-TRAHJ-ih-nee

Meaning: From the Greek kalyx (calyx) and stegon (cover), referring to the bracts that conceal the calyx
Latin Pronunciation: kal-ee-STEE-jee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kal-ee-STEG-ee-uh

Meaning: From the greek kalyx (calyx) and thrix (hair), referring to the hairs at the end of the calyx
Latin Pronunciation: kal-LY-triks

calyx tube (alt. calyx-tube)

A tube formed partly by the united bases of the sepals and partly by the receptacle. See also: hypanthium.

calyx bract

A bract which takes the form of a petal or sepal.

calyx

The outer part ( perianth) of the flower, usually green and formed of several divisions called sepals, that protects the bud.

calyx lobe

The portion of the sepal which is apical, or remains free, in a fused calyx.

calyx tube (alt. calyx-tube)

A tube formed partly by the united bases of the sepals and partly by the receptacle. See also: hypanthium.

Meaning: A South American vernacular name for a species of Lantana
Latin Pronunciation: kuh-MAR-uh

cambium

The internal layer of living cells between the inner bark and the sapwood where growth takes place that produces secondary xylem and phloem.

Meaning: Named for Jacques Cambessedes, 19th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: kam-bes-seh-DAY-see-eye

Cambrian

1. The oldest geological period in the Paleozoic era, about 500 million years ago. 2. Refers to organisms formed during that period.

Meaning: Of or from Wales
Latin Pronunciation: KAM-bree-kuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KAM-brik-uh

Meaning: From the Greek Chamae (ground) and linon (flax), alluding to its being a weed which suppresses the vigour of flax crops
Latin Pronunciation: ka-MEL-ih-na

Meaning: Named for Kenneth L. Cameron, who discovered this species of Aloe in Nyasaland (now Malawi)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-er-ON-ee-eye

Latin Pronunciation: kam-brik-us
Meaning: Welsh (Cambrian).

Meaning: Named for Adelbert von Chamisso (Camisso), French-born 18th century German naturalist on the "Rurik" which visited Alaska and California in 1816
Latin Pronunciation: kam-iss-OH-nee-a

Meaning: Having flowers like Camellia
Latin Pronunciation: kam-mel-lih-FLOR-uh

campanile

A bell tower, usually freestanding.

Meaning: Bell-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kam-pan-ee-FOR-mee

Meaning: The Campanula (bellflower) family
Latin Pronunciation: kam-pan-yew-LAY-see-ay

Meaning: Little bell, bell-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kam-pan-yoo-LAR-ee-uh

campanulate

Bell-shaped; cup-shaped with a broad base.

Meaning: Bell-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kam-pan-yoo-LAH-tuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-pan-yoo-LAY-tuh

Meaning: Bell-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: kam-pan-yoo-LAH-tum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-pan-yoo-LAY-tum

Latin Pronunciation: kam-pan-yew-lay-tus
Meaning: bell-shaped (campanulate).

Latin Pronunciation: kam-pan-yew-loy deez
Meaning: Bell-flower-like.

Meaning: Of or from Campeche, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: kam-pech-ee-AY-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-pech-ee-AH-nuh

Meaning: Named for Dr. Archibald Campbell, 19th century botanist who accompanied Hooker on his Himalayan explorations
Latin Pronunciation: camp-BEL-ee-eye

Meaning: Of or from Campeche, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: kan-pech-ee-AY-num
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-pech-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Of or from Campeche, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: kam-pech-ee-EN-see

campestral

Growing in fields.

Meaning: Found in plains or similar flat or level places
Latin Pronunciation: kam-PES-tree
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-PES-tray

Latin Pronunciation: kam - pest - riss
Meaning: of the fields or open country.

Meaning: Ancient Greek name for camphor tree
Latin Pronunciation: kam-FOR-uh

Meaning: Like camphor
Latin Pronunciation: kam-for-AH-tuh

Meaning: Like camphor
Latin Pronunciation: kam-for-AH-tus

Meaning: Like camphor
Latin Pronunciation: kam-for-AH-tum

Meaning: Obscure meaning; possibly a derivation of camphorum, alluding to the aromatic properties of the species
Latin Pronunciation: KAM-por-um

Meaning: Named for Dr. Paolo Campos Porto, 20th century Brazilian botanist and director of Jardim Bot?nico in Rio de Janerio
Latin Pronunciation: KAHM-pos por-toh-AH-na

Meaning: Named for Dr. Paolo Campos Porto, 20th century Brazilian botanist and director of Jardim Bot?nico in Rio de Janerio
Latin Pronunciation: KAHM-pos por-toh-AH-num

Meaning: Named for Dr. Paolo Campos Porto, 20th century Brazilian botanist and director of Jardim Bot?nico in Rio de Janerio
Latin Pronunciation: KAHM-pos por-TOH-ee

campos

Grassland located south of the equator in Brazil.

campo cerrado

A Brazilian type of parkland composed of scattered trees in dense grass.

camptodromous

A pattern of venation where the secondary veins curve toward the margin without forming loops.

Meaning: From the Greek words kampylos (bent) and centron (spur)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-py-loh-SEN-trum

Meaning: Curved (bent) spathe
Latin Pronunciation: kamp-ih-lo-SPAY-tha

Meaning: Curved (bent) spathe
Latin Pronunciation: kamp-ih-lo-SPAY-thum

Meaning: Curved (bent) spathe
Latin Pronunciation: kamp-ih-lo-SPAY-thus

campylotropous

Describes an ovule or seed so curved as to bring the apex and base nearly together.

Meaning: Of or from Kamchatka peninsula area of Russia
Latin Pronunciation: kam-shat-KEN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-shat-SEN-see

Meaning: Of or from Kamchatka peninsula area of Russia
Latin Pronunciation: kam-shat-KEN-sis
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-shat-SEN-sis

Meaning: Of or from Canada and North America
Latin Pronunciation: ka-na-DEN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ka-na-DEN-say

Meaning: Ash-colored, gray, hoary
Latin Pronunciation: KAN-uh

Latin Pronunciation: kan-ad-den-siss
Meaning: Canadian, of Canada.

Meaning: Grooved or channelled
Latin Pronunciation: kan-uh-lik-yoo-LAY-tuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-uh-lik-yoo-LAH-tuh

canaliculate (syn. tubulose)

Longitudinally channeled or grooved, especially on leaf stalks and midribs.

Meaning: Grooved or channelled
Latin Pronunciation: kan-uh-lik-yoo-LAY-tum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-uh-lik-yoo-LAH-tum

Latin Pronunciation: kan-al-ik-yew-lay-tus
Meaning: grooved, channeled.

Meaning: Of or from the Canary Isles
Latin Pronunciation: kuh-nair-ee-EN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kuh-nair-ee-EN-say

Latin Pronunciation: kan-ar-ee-en-siss
Meaning: of the Canary Islands.

Meaning: Latticed
Latin Pronunciation: kan-sell-AY-tuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-sell-AH-tuh

Meaning: Latticed
Latin Pronunciation: kan-sell-AY-tum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-sell-AH-tum

Meaning: Named for William Marriott Canby, 19th century American botanist
Latin Pronunciation: KAN-bee-eye

Meaning: Latticed
Latin Pronunciation: kan-sell-AY-tus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-sell-AH-tus

Meaning: Latinized form of the Malabar vernacular kanavali, the name for this genus of climbing herbs
Latin Pronunciation: kan-uh-VAY-lee-uh

cancellate

A surface having the appearance of a lattice, with regularly arranged openings, e.g., the endostome of the Fontinalacae.

Meaning: Like a branched candlestick
Latin Pronunciation: kan-del-AH-bra

Meaning: Like a branched candlestick
Latin Pronunciation: kan-del-AH-brum

Latin Pronunciation: kand-ik-anz
Meaning: white, (or woolly-white).

Meaning: Like a branched candlestick
Latin Pronunciation: kan-del-AH-brus

Meaning: White, glittering
Latin Pronunciation: KAN-did-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-DEE-duh

Meaning: The most white, whitest
Latin Pronunciation: kan-did-ISS-ee-muh

Meaning: The most white, whitest
Latin Pronunciation: kan-did-ISS-ee-mum

Latin Pronunciation: kan-did-diss-im-us
Meaning: very white (or woolly-white).

Meaning: White, glittering
Latin Pronunciation: KAN-did-ans
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-DEE-dans

Meaning: Very white
Latin Pronunciation: kan-DID-yoo-luh

Meaning: White, glittering
Latin Pronunciation: KAN-did-um

candle

The tender spring growth of the pine and some other needle- leaf evergreen species.

Latin Pronunciation: kan-did-us
Meaning: white.

Meaning: Named for Augustin Pyramus de Candolle, 19th century Swiss professor of botany, founder of a classification system and renowned author
Latin Pronunciation: kan-dol-lee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Named for Augustin Pyramus de Candolle, 19th century Swiss professor of botany, founder of a classification system and renowned author
Latin Pronunciation: kan-dol-lee-AY-num

Meaning: Named for Augustin Pyramus de Candolle, 19th century Swiss professor of botany, founder of a classification system and renowned author
Latin Pronunciation: kan-dol-lee-AY-nus

cane

A long, often supple, woody stem.

Latin Pronunciation: kan-ness-senz
Meaning: downy gray.

canescent

Hoary with gray pubescence.

Meaning: Pertaining to dogs
Latin Pronunciation: kay-NEE-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-EE-nuh

Meaning: Pertaining to dogs
Latin Pronunciation: kay-NEE-num
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-EE-num

Latin Pronunciation: kan-nye-nus
Meaning: referring to a dog.

canker

A patch of dead cells on a trunk or branches of a woody plant.

Meaning: Having foliage like hemp
Latin Pronunciation: kan-uh-bih-FOH-lee-a

Meaning: Having foliage like hemp
Latin Pronunciation: kan-uh-bih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Hemp-like
Latin Pronunciation: kan-na-BIN-uh

Meaning: Hemp-like
Latin Pronunciation: kan-na-BIN-us

Meaning: The Canna family
Latin Pronunciation: kan-AY-see-ay

Meaning: Having foliage like hemp
Latin Pronunciation: kan-uh-bih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Hemp-like
Latin Pronunciation: kan-na-BIN-um

Meaning: Having leaves like Canna
Latin Pronunciation: kan-ni-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having leaves like Canna
Latin Pronunciation: kan-ni-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having leaves like Canna
Latin Pronunciation: kan-ni-FOH-lee-us

cano-tomentose

Density of hairs midway between canescent and tomentose.

canopy

The uppermost layer of branches and foliage of forest or a single tree.

canopy layer

The highest stratum of growth in a forest, where the trees form almost solid treetop canopies.

canopy trees

Forest trees which have reached a size where the crown becomes part of the uppermost layer.

Meaning: Of or from Cantabria
Latin Pronunciation: kan-TAB-ree-ka

Meaning: Of or from Cantabria
Latin Pronunciation: kan-TAB-ree-kum

Meaning: Relating to Cambridge, England (Latinized to Cantabrigia)
Latin Pronunciation: kan-tuh-brij-ee-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Cantabria
Latin Pronunciation: kan-TAB-ree-kus

Meaning: Relating to Cambridge, England (Latinized to Cantabrigia)
Latin Pronunciation: kan-tuh-brij-ee-EN-sis

Meaning: Named for Sir John Henry Thomas Manners-Sutton, 19th century governor of Victoria, later named 3rd Viscount Canterbury
Latin Pronunciation: kan-ter-bur-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Of or from Canton, China
Latin Pronunciation: kan-toe-nee-EN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kan-toe-nee-EN-say

Meaning: Latinized form of the Peruvian name of this plant
Latin Pronunciation: KAN-tew-uh

cant hook

A term used in the united States for a tool used for rolling logs, consisting of a wooden lever with a moveable iron hook near the end, often with a lipped iron ring round the tip. See also: log lifter, peavey.

Meaning: Of or from Canton, China
Latin Pronunciation: kan-toe-nee-EN-sis

Meaning: Ash-colored, gray, hoary
Latin Pronunciation: KAN-um

Latin Pronunciation: kay-nus
Meaning: ash-colored, hoary.

Meaning: Of or from Cape Manambato, Madagascar
Latin Pronunciation: kap man-am-bat-oh-EN-sis

capability (alt. land capability)

A measurement of the suitability of land for some particular use without permanent damage to the land.

Meaning: Of or from the cape
Latin Pronunciation: ka-PEN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ka-PEN-say

capacity formula

Mathematical rule used in hydraulics to calculate the extent or discharge volume of a channel.

Latin Pronunciation: kap-pen-siss
Meaning: of the Cape

Meaning: Hair-like
Latin Pronunciation: kap-il-LAY-see-uh

Meaning: Wrinkled
Latin Pronunciation: kap-er-AY-tuh

Meaning: Wrinkled
Latin Pronunciation: kap-er-AY-tum

Meaning: Wrinkled
Latin Pronunciation: kap-er-AY-tus

Meaning: Hair-like
Latin Pronunciation: kap-il-LAY-see-um

Meaning: Hair-like
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ill-AIR-ee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kap-ill-AIR-ay

Meaning: Hair-like
Latin Pronunciation: kap-il-LAY-see-us

capillary

Hair-like.

Latin Pronunciation: kap-il-lay-riss
Meaning: hair-like.

capillary action (syn. capillarity)

The phenomenon of a liquid spontaneously seeping up thin tubes due to adhesive and cohesive forces and surface tension.

capillary porosity

The aggregate volume of small pores within a particular soil to retain water against the force of gravity.

capillary water

The part of soil water which is held cohesively as a continuous layer around particles and in spaces, most of it being available to plant roots.

Meaning: With fine hairs
Latin Pronunciation: kap-il-LAY-tuh

Meaning: With fine hairs
Latin Pronunciation: kap-il-LAY-tum

Latin Pronunciation: kap-il-lay-tus
Meaning: with fine hairs.

Meaning: Hairy leaved
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ill-ih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Venus' hair
Latin Pronunciation: KAP-il-ee VEN-er-um

Meaning: Hairy leaved
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ill-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Hairy leaved
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ill-ih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Venus' hair
Latin Pronunciation: KAP-il-iss VEN-er-is

Meaning: Venus' hair
Latin Pronunciation: KAP-il-iss VEN-er-iss

capitate (syn. capitiform, alt. capitose)

1. Shaped like a head; collected into a head or dense cluster. 2. Terminated by a bulbous, swollen area.

Meaning: Having a head, referring to growth habit
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ih-TAY-tuh

Meaning: Having a head, referring to growth habit
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ih-TAY-tum

Meaning: Having a head, referring to growth habit
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ih-TAY-tus

Meaning: With small head
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ih-TEL-uh

Meaning: With a very small head
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ih-tel-AY-ta

capitellate

1. Shaped like a tiny head. 2. Clustered in a compact headlike grouping.

Meaning: With small head
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ih-TEL-us

Meaning: With a very small head
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ih-tel-AY-tum

Meaning: With small head
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ih-TEL-um

Meaning: With little head
Latin Pronunciation: kap-it-yoo-LAH-tum

Meaning: With little head
Latin Pronunciation: kap-it-yoo-LAH-tus

capitulum

A dense inflorescence of unstalked flowers shaped like a globe, such as a buttonbush,Cephalanthus; or sometimes shaped flat, as in Compositae.

Meaning: With little head
Latin Pronunciation: kap-it-yoo-LAH-tuh

Meaning: Of or from Cappadocia (Western Turkey)
Latin Pronunciation: kap-puh-do-SEE-ka

Meaning: Resembles smoke; smoke-coloured
Latin Pronunciation: kap-NOY-deez

Meaning: Of or from Cappadocia (Western Turkey)
Latin Pronunciation: kap-puh-do-SEE-kum

Meaning: Having tendrils
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ree-oh-LAH-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: kap-ree-ol-lay-tus
Meaning: winding, twining.

Meaning: Support, tendril
Latin Pronunciation: KAP-ree-uh

Meaning: Having tendrils
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ree-oh-LAH-tum

Meaning: Like a goat's horn
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ree-KOR-nee

Meaning: Like a goat's horn
Latin Pronunciation: kap-ree-KOR-nis

caprification

The commercial process of pollination of fig plants by wasps.

Meaning: Latin for little box, case
Latin Pronunciation: kap-SEL-luh

Meaning: Goat leaf
Latin Pronunciation: kap-rih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Like Capsicum
Alternative Meaning:An old common name for this plant
Latin Pronunciation: kap-sih-KAS-trum

Meaning: Resembling Capsicum, the genus name is from the Greek kapto (to bite) referring to the fiery flavor of many peppers
Latin Pronunciation: kap-sih-KOY-deez

capsid bugs

Green or brown bugs that suck sap of young growth, causing distortion of flowers and leaves.

Meaning: With capsules
Latin Pronunciation: kap-SYOO-lar-ee

Latin Pronunciation: kap-soo-lay-riss
Meaning: capsule- bearing (capsular).

capsular

Belonging to or of the nature of a capsule.

capsule

1. A dry dehiscent fruit composed of more than one carpel that splits partly open at maturity. 2. The enlarged distal end of the sporophyte; it contains the spores, and is sometimes known as the sporangium.

Meaning: Medusa's head, referring to the Greek mythological figure
Latin Pronunciation: KAY-put me-DOO-say
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KAY-put me-DOO-see

Meaning: Snake-head
Latin Pronunciation: kay-put-VY-per-ay

Meaning: From the Greek for cloak; but also for Caracas, Venezuela where the plant originates
Latin Pronunciation: kar-uh-KAL-uh

Meaning: Of or from the Caracas (Venezuela)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ah-ka-SAY-nuh

Meaning: Of or from the Caracas (Venezuela)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ah-ka-SAY-num

Meaning: Of or from the Caracas (Venezuela)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ah-ka-SAY-nus

Meaning: Of or from the Caribbean
Latin Pronunciation: ka-RY-buh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ka-RAY-buh

Meaning: Latin form of an Aboriginal name
Latin Pronunciation: kah-rahm-BOH-luh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ka-RAM-boh-luh

Meaning: Latinized form of car-allum, the Indian (Telinga) name of this plant
Latin Pronunciation: kar-uh-LOO-muh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kar-uh-LUM-uh

carapace

The hard case or shield covering part of the body of animals like turtles and some invertebrates.

carbohydrates

Neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen formed by green plants, including sugars, starches and cellulose.

carbonate zone

A soil layer with concentrated carbonates, chiefly calcium carbonate, found most often in arid areas.

Carboniferous

Refers to the Pennsylvanian (upper carboniferous) and Mississippian (lower carboniferous) geological periods in the upper part of the Paleozoic era, about 200 to 260 million years ago.

carbon 14 dating

The selection and testing of undisturbed soils, buried materials such as wood, firepit remains, and other organic materials, for measurement of radioactive carbon 14 with a half-life of approximately 5,500 years, to determine the rough age of the selected materials.

carbon

Nonmetallic element found in all organic compounds.

carbon assimilation

Photosynthesis.

carbon cycle

The process of changing atmospheric carbon into sugar by photosynthesis in plants, synthesis of more complex organic compounds in higher plants and animals, and the return to carbon dioxide by respiration or death and decay of plant and animal tissues.

carcinogen (adj. carcinogenic)

Substance capable of producing or inciting cancer.

Meaning: Having foliage like cardamine (from the Greek name k?rdamon, referring to an Indian spice); also spelled cardaminifolia and cardaminaefolia
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dam-in-ee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having foliage like cardamine (from the Greek name k?rdamon, referring to an Indian spice); also spelled cardaminifolius
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dam-in-ee-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Having foliage like cardamine (from the Greek name k?rdamon, referring to an Indian spice); also spelled cardaminifolium
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dam-in-ee-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Resembles Cardamine (genus, from the Greek k?rdamon, referring to an Indian spice)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dam-in-OY-deez

Meaning: From the Greek kardia (heart), referring to its medicinal use
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dee-AH-kuh

Meaning: From the Greek kardia (heart), referring to the heart-shaped seeds
Latin Pronunciation: kar-DAR-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek kardia (heart) and andra (stamen)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dee-AN-dra

Meaning: Cardinal
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dih-NAL-ee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kar-dih-NAL-ay

Meaning: From the Greek name k?rdamon, referring to an Indian spice
Latin Pronunciation: kar-duh-MO-mum

cardinal points

The four chief directions of a compass reading: north, south, east, and west.

Latin Pronunciation: kard-in-nay-liss
Meaning: cardinal 0 (red).

cardioactive

Herbal medicines that can affect the heart.

Meaning: From the Greek kardio (heart) and karpos (fruit), referring to the shape of the the achene fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dee-oh-KAR-puh

Meaning: From the Greek kardio (heart) and karpos (fruit), referring to the shape of the the achene fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dee-oh-KAR-pum

Meaning: A compound name; kardio refers to the heart-shaped leaves, crinum is from the Greek krinon, meaning lily
Latin Pronunciation: kar-dee-oh-KREE-num
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ar-dee-oh-KRY-num

Meaning: Heart-shaped leaves
Latin Pronunciation: kard-ee-oh-FIL-uh

Meaning: Heart-shaped leaves
Latin Pronunciation: kard-ee-oh-FIL-um

Meaning: Heart-shaped leaves
Latin Pronunciation: kard-ee-oh-FIL-us

Meaning: Small thistle
Latin Pronunciation: kar-DUNK-yoo-lie

Meaning: Named for James Cardwell, 19th century American wildflower collector
Latin Pronunciation: card-WELL-ee-eye

Meaning: Small thistle
Latin Pronunciation: kar-DUNK-yoo-lus

Meaning: Of or from the Caribbean area
Latin Pronunciation: kuh-RIB-ee-uh

Meaning: Of or from the Caribbean area
Latin Pronunciation: kuh-RIB-ee-um

Latin Pronunciation: ka-rib-bee-us
Meaning: from the Caribbean Sea region.

carina

Keel.

carinal

On or relating to a ridge or keel.

Meaning: From the Greek karike, a kind of fig; name given to the papaya or paw-paw because of the fig-like leaves
Latin Pronunciation: KAIR-ih-kum

carinate

Having a keel or projecting a longitudinal medial line on the lower surface.

Meaning: From the Greek karike, a kind of fig; name given to the papaya or paw-paw because of the fig-like leaves
Latin Pronunciation: KAIR-ih-kus

Meaning: Keeled
Latin Pronunciation: kar-IN-uh-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: ka-rin-nay-tus
Meaning: with a keel.

Meaning: Keeled
Latin Pronunciation: kar-IN-uh-tum

Meaning: Of or from Carinthia, Austria
Latin Pronunciation: kar-in-thee-AH-ka

Meaning: Of or from Carinthia, Austria
Latin Pronunciation: kar-in-thee-AH-kum

Meaning: Of or from Carinthia, Austria
Latin Pronunciation: kar-in-thee-AH-kus

Meaning: Named for 19th century American botanist Charles (Carlos) Wright, who collected and surveyed in Texas
Latin Pronunciation: kar-lo-RITE-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for WR Carles, 19th century vice-consul in the Orient, who collected the plant while there
Latin Pronunciation: KARLS-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Carmichael; not sure who
Latin Pronunciation: kar-my-KAY-lee-eye

carminatives

Herbal medicines that can dispel gas from the intestines, relieving colic.

Meaning: Carmine (red-colored)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-MIN-ee-um

Meaning: Carmine (red-colored)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-MIN-ee-uh

Meaning: Carmine (red-colored)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-MIN-ee-us

Meaning: Flesh-colored
Latin Pronunciation: KAR-nee-uh

Meaning: Named for Andrew Carnegie, 19th century American philanthropist and steel tycoon
Latin Pronunciation: kar-neg-GEE-uh

Meaning: Flesh-colored
Latin Pronunciation: KAR-nee-um

Meaning: Of or from Carnerosa Pass, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ner-oh-SAY-nuh

Latin Pronunciation: karr-nee-us
Meaning: flesh-colored.

Meaning: Of or from Carniola (formerly northwestern Jugoslavia)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-nee-OH-lee-kuh

Meaning: Of or from Carniola (formerly northwestern Jugoslavia)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-nee-OH-lee-kum

carnivorous plant

A plant subsisting on nutrients obtained from the breakdown of animal tissue, usually that of insects.

Meaning: Of or from Carniola (formerly northwestern Jugoslavia)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-nee-OH-lee-kus

Meaning: Fleshy
Latin Pronunciation: kar-NO-suh

carnose

Fleshy.

Meaning: Slightly fleshy
Latin Pronunciation: karn-OH-sul-a

Meaning: Slightly fleshy
Latin Pronunciation: karn-OH-sul-us

Meaning: Slightly fleshy
Latin Pronunciation: karn-OH-sul-um

Meaning: Fleshy
Latin Pronunciation: kar-NO-sum

Latin Pronunciation: kar-noh-sus
Meaning: fleshy.

Carnoy's fluid

A liquid preservative for cytological materials, containing 3:1 absolute ethyl alcohol and glacial acetic acid.

Carnoy's fluid

A liquid preservative for cytological materials, containing 3:1 absolute ethyl alcohol and glacial acetic acid.

Meaning: Named for Grandduke Carl Alexander of Sachsen-Weimar-Eisenach, 19th century ruler of Weimar, Germany
Latin Pronunciation: kar-OH-lee al-eks-AN-dree

Meaning: Of the Carolinas (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kair-oh-LY-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kair-oh-LIN-uh

Meaning: Of or from the Carolinas (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-oh-LIN-ay
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kar-oh-LIN-ee

Meaning: Of the Carolinas (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kair-oh-lin-EN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kair-oh-lin-EN-say

Meaning: Of the Carolinas (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kair-oh-lin-EN-sis

Meaning: Of or from Carolina (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kair-oh-lin-ee-AN-uh

Meaning: Of or from Carolina (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kair-oh-lin-ee-AN-um

Latin Pronunciation: ka-rol-in-ee-ay-nus
Meaning: of the Carolinas (states).

Latin Pronunciation: ka-rol-in-ee-en-siss
Meaning: of pertaining to the Carolinas.

Latin Pronunciation: ka-rol-lye-nus
Meaning: from the Carolinas.

Meaning: Carrot
Latin Pronunciation: kar-OH-tuh

Meaning: Fruit, often a suffix
Latin Pronunciation: KAR-puh

carotene (alt. carotin)

Orange-yellow hydrocarbon, a pigment which commonly appears in such plants as carrots and squash; a precursor of Vitamin A.

Meaning: Of or from Carolina (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: kair-oh-lin-ee-EN-see

Latin Pronunciation: kar-pat-ik-us
Meaning: from the

Meaning: Of or from Carpathian mountains, in Moldavia and Transylvania
Latin Pronunciation: kar-PAT-ih-kuh

carpel

A simple pistil or one member of a compound pistil.

Meaning: Of or from the Gulf of Carpentaria (Australia)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-pen-TAR-ree-uh

Meaning: Named for Prof. William M. Carpenter, 19th century American physician
Latin Pronunciation: kar-pen-TER-ree-uh

Meaning: From the Greek karphos (something light and dry, like chaff) and phorus (bearing, carrying)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-fey-FOR-us

Meaning: Having leaves like those of Carpinus (Hornbeam)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-pine-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having leaves like those of Carpinus (hornbeam)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-pine-ih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having leaves like those of Carpinus (Hornbeam)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-pine-ih-FOH-lee-us

carpid

Half of a schizocarp, e.g., one of the winged seeds of a maple.

Meaning: Edible fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kar-poh-BROH-tus

carposporophyte

The post-sexual fruiting stage of a red seaweed.

carpophore

1. The slender prolongation of the floral axis which in the Umbelliferae supports the pendulous ripe carpels. 2. The nonmotile spore of the carposporophyte.

carpogonium

The female organ of red seaweeds.

Meaning: From the Greek karpos (fruit) and xylon (wood)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-poh-ZY-lon

Meaning: Fruit, often a suffix
Latin Pronunciation: KAR-pum

Meaning: Fruit, often a suffix
Latin Pronunciation: KAR-pus

carr

A fen.

Latin Pronunciation: kar-taj-in-en-siss
Meaning: from

carrying capacity

The maximum number of individuals of a particular species that a given area can maintain indefinitely.

Meaning: Like cartilage
Latin Pronunciation: kart-ill-uh-GIN-ee-uh

Meaning: Of the Carthusian monks of La Grande Chartreuse near Grenoble, France
Latin Pronunciation: kar-thoo-see-AN-or-um

Meaning: Like cartilage
Latin Pronunciation: kart-ill-uh-GIN-ee-um

cartilaginous

Hard and tough, but still flexible.

Latin Pronunciation: kart-il-aj-inn-ee-us
Meaning: car tilage-like.

caruncle (syn. strophiole, adj. carunculate)

An excrescence or appendage at or about the hilum of a seed.

Meaning: Having foliage like Caraway (Carum carvi)
Latin Pronunciation: car-vee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: An old name for Caraway
Latin Pronunciation: KAR-vee

Meaning: Having foliage like Caraway (Carum carvi)
Latin Pronunciation: car-vee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having foliage like Caraway (Carum carvi)
Latin Pronunciation: car-vee-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Pinkish or clove-like
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ee-oh-fil-AY-see-uh

Meaning: The Pink family
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ree-oh-fil-AY-see-ay

Meaning: Pinkish or clove-like
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ee-oh-fil-AY-see-um

caryophyllaceous

1. Refers to members of Caryophyllaceae. 2. Refers to petals which have a long claw at the base.

Meaning: Pink coloured or clove scented
Alternative Meaning:From the Greek karya (walnut) and phyllon (leaf), referring to the aromatic scent; became used for cloves, and subsequently for clove pinks
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ee-oh-FIL-uh

Meaning: Pink coloured or clove scented
Alternative Meaning:From the Greek karya (walnut) and phyllon (leaf), referring to the aromatic scent; became used for cloves, and subsequently for clove pinks
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ee-oh-FIL-um

Meaning: Pinkish or clove-like
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ee-oh-fil-AY-see-us

Meaning: Having foliage like Caryopteris (from the Greek karyon, nut and pteron, wing, referring to the winged fruit)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ee-op-ter-id-ih-FOH-lee-uh

Latin Pronunciation: ka-ree-oh-fill-us
Meaning: per taining to the Pink family.

caryopsis

A grain, such as grasses; a seed-like fruit with a thin pericarp adnate to the contained seed.

Meaning: Having foliage like Caryopteris (from the Greek karyon, nut and pteron, wing, referring to the winged fruit)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ee-op-ter-id-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having foliage like Caryopteris (from the Greek karyon, nut and pteron, wing, referring to the winged fruit)
Latin Pronunciation: kar-ee-op-ter-id-ih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Like Caryota (genus name from the Greek karyon, nut)
Latin Pronunciation: kair-ee-oh-TID-ee-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kar-ee-oh-TID-ee-um

cascade

A steep, small fall of water usually arranged in a succession of stages over rocks or a series of steps.

Meaning: Of or from Kashmir; also spelled cashmiriana
Latin Pronunciation: kash-meer-ee-AN-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kash-meer-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Of or from Kashmir; also spelled cashmirianum
Latin Pronunciation: kash-meer-ee-AN-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kash-meer-ee-AY-num

Meaning: Latinized form of Cascabel, a Spanish word meaning rattle
Latin Pronunciation: kas-kuh-BEL-uh

Latin Pronunciation: kash-meer-ee-ay-nus
Meaning: of Cashmere (in Asia).

Meaning: Variant of cashmerianus; meaning of or from Kashmir
Latin Pronunciation: kash-meer-ee-AN-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kash-meer-ee-AY-nus

Meaning: Variant of cashmerianum; meaning of or from Kashmir
Latin Pronunciation: kash-meer-ee-AN-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kash-meer-ee-AY-num

Meaning: Variant of cashmeriana; meaning of or from Kashmir
Latin Pronunciation: kash-meer-ee-AN-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kash-meer-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Of or from the Caspian Sea
Latin Pronunciation: KAS-pee-uh

Meaning: Named for Cardinal Casimiro Gomez de Ortega, 18th century Spanish botanist
Latin Pronunciation: kas-im-ir-ROH-uh

Meaning: Of or from the Caspian Sea
Latin Pronunciation: KAS-pee-us

Meaning: Referring to the Caspian Sea
Latin Pronunciation: KAS-pee-ka

Meaning: Of or from the Caspian Sea
Latin Pronunciation: KAS-pee-um

Meaning: From Cassena, an American Indian name for a plant with similar fruit
Latin Pronunciation: ka-SI-nee

cassideous

Shaped like a helmet or hood.

Meaning: Resembles Cassia (genus name, from the Greek name Kasia used by Dioscorides)
Latin Pronunciation: kass-ee-OY-deez

Meaning: Chaste; spotless
Latin Pronunciation: KASS-tuh

Meaning: Having foliage like Castanea (Latin name for chestnut)
Latin Pronunciation: kas-tan-ee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Like Cassia
Latin Pronunciation: kass-ih-NOY-deez

Meaning: Having foliage like Castanea (Latin name for chestnut)
Latin Pronunciation: kas-tan-ee-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having foliage like Castanea (Latin name for chestnut)
Latin Pronunciation: kas-tan-ee-FOH-lee-us

castaneous

Of a chestnut-color; dark brown.

Meaning: Variant of castaneifolia (having leaves like Castanea, the Latin name for chestnut)
Latin Pronunciation: kas-tan-ih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: From Castanea (Chestnut) and sperma (seed), referring to the similarity in the shape and size of the seeds
Latin Pronunciation: kas-tan-oh-SPER-mum

Meaning: The Latin name for chestnut
Latin Pronunciation: kas-TAN-nee-us

Meaning: Named for Rene R. L. Castel, late 18th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: KAS-tel-uh

Meaning: Chaste; spotless
Latin Pronunciation: KASS-tus

Meaning: Chaste; spotless
Latin Pronunciation: KASS-tum

casual species

Species which occur rarely in a community, such as a lilac,Syringa, but does not naturalize young plants in the area.

catabolism

Destructive metabolism releasing energy and breaking down complex materials in a living organism.

casual

A weed in a cultivated field which appears occasionally but does not naturalize.

Meaning: Having leaves like Catalpa
Latin Pronunciation: ka-tal-pih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having leaves like Catalpa
Latin Pronunciation: ka-tal-pih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Of or from Catamarca, Argentina
Latin Pronunciation: kata-mark-en-sey

catadromous

When the first branch of a frond or vein in a pinnate leaf appears on the side facing towards the base.

Meaning: Of or from Catamarca, Argentina
Latin Pronunciation: kata-mark-en-sis

Meaning: From the Malayan name for the Indian Almond
Latin Pronunciation: kuh-TAP-uh

cataphyll

A leaf, or leaf-like organ, usually found below ground.

catapult fruits

Those fruits that discharge their seeds forcefully; ballistic fruits.

Meaning: From the Greek katarraktes (downrush or waterfall)
Latin Pronunciation: kat-uh-RAK-tar-um

Meaning: From the Greek katarraktes (downrush or waterfall)
Latin Pronunciation: kat-uh-RAK-tar-uh

Meaning: Pertaining to cats
Latin Pronunciation: kat-AR-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek katarraktes (downrush or waterfall)
Latin Pronunciation: kat-uh-RAK-tar-us

Meaning: Of or from Santa Catarina, Brazil
Latin Pronunciation: kat-ar-ee-NEN-see

Meaning: Of or from Santa Catarina, Brazil
Latin Pronunciation: kat-ar-ee-NEN-sis

Meaning: Pertaining to cats
Latin Pronunciation: kat-AR-ee-us

Meaning: Pertaining to cats
Latin Pronunciation: kat-AR-ee-um

catarobic

Refers to a wet or aquatic habitat where the slow breakdown of organic matter is occurring. Organic materials are given off into the medium with much of the oxygen used, but not enough to prohibit the occurrence of aerobic organisms.

Meaning: Of waterfalls
Latin Pronunciation: kat-uh-RAK-tay
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kat-uh-RAK-tay-ee

Meaning: Of waterfalls
Latin Pronunciation: kat-uh-RAK-trum

Meaning: Of the Blue Ridge mountain region in the southeastern U.S., where the Catawba River flows
Latin Pronunciation: ka-taw-bee-EN-see

Latin Pronunciation: kat-aw-bee-en-siss
Meaning: from the Catawba River region (N. Carolina).

Meaning: Possibly from the Malay name kachu
Latin Pronunciation: KAT-eh-choo

caterpillars

The larvae of butterflies and moths, which often feed on leaves.

Meaning: Named for Mark Catesby, 18th century British botanist
Latin Pronunciation: KAYTS-bee-eye

Meaning: Pure (immaculate) flower
Latin Pronunciation: kat-uh-RANTH-us

cathartics

Potent herbal laxatives.

Meaning: Purgative
Latin Pronunciation: kat-AR-tik-um

Meaning: Of or from Cathay (China)
Latin Pronunciation: kat-ay-YAH-nuh

Meaning: Purgative
Latin Pronunciation: kat-AR-tik-uh

Meaning: Of or from Cathay (China)
Latin Pronunciation: kat-ay-YAH-num

Latin Pronunciation: kath-art-ik-us
Meaning: cathartic.

Meaning: Of or from Cathay (an old name for China)
Latin Pronunciation: kath-ay-EN-see

Latin Pronunciation: kath-ay-en-siss
Meaning: of or from Cathay (China).

Meaning: Of or from the Cathcart district, on the eastern cape of South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: kath-kart-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Cathay (China)
Latin Pronunciation: kat-ay-YAH-nus

Meaning: Dweller of Catinga (in Brazil)
Latin Pronunciation: ka-ting-ih-KOH-la

Meaning: Of or from the Cathcart district, on the eastern cape of South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: kath-kart-EN-sis

cation

A positively charged ion.

Meaning: Named for William Cattley, 19th century Englishman, who collected rare plants and was a patron of botany
Latin Pronunciation: kat-lay-ee-AH-num
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kat-lay-ee-AY-num

Meaning: Of or from Caucasus, North Turkey
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-KAS-ee-kuh

Meaning: Resembles Cattleya (genus named for William Cattley, 19th century Englishman who imported the plant from Brazil)
Latin Pronunciation: kat-lee-OP-sis

Latin Pronunciation: kaw-kass-ik-us
Meaning: of or from the Caucasus (Eurasia).

Meaning: Of or from Caucasus, North Turkey
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-KAS-ee-kum

Meaning: Variant of caucasicus, meaning of or from Caucasus (North Turkey)
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-KAS-ee-us

Meaning: Cat's tail
Latin Pronunciation: KAW-duh FEL-in-uh

catkin

A compact and often drooping cluster of reduced, stalkless, and usually unisexual flowers; an ament.

Meaning: With a tail
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-DAH-tuh

Meaning: Cat's tail
Latin Pronunciation: KAW-day-FEL-in-nay

caudate

Having a slender tail-like appendage.

Latin Pronunciation: kaw-day-tus
Meaning: with a tail (caudate).

Meaning: Variant of caucasicum, meaning of or from Caucasus (North Turkey)
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-KAS-ee-um

caudicle

The thread-like or strap-shaped stalk of a pollinium.

Meaning: Bearing a tail
Latin Pronunciation: KAW-dee-ger

Meaning: From the Latin, meaning a woody stem
Latin Pronunciation: KAW-deks

Meaning: Bearing a tail
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-DEE-ger-a

Meaning: Bearing a tail
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-DEE-ger-um

Meaning: With a tail
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-DAH-tum

Meaning: Diminutive of caudiger (to bear a tail)
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-dee-ger-EL-a

Meaning: From the Greek kaulos (stem) and arthron (joint), referring to the jointed pseudobulbs
Latin Pronunciation: kawl-AR-thron

caulescent

Having a manifest stem above ground.

Meaning: From caulos (axis) and erpa (to creep)
Latin Pronunciation: KAWL-er-puh

Meaning: Having flowers on the stem
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-lih-FLOR-uh

Meaning: Having flowers on the stem
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-lih-FLOR-um

Latin Pronunciation: kaw-less-senz
Meaning: having a stem (or stems).

Latin Pronunciation: kaw-lif-floh-rus
Meaning: with stemmed flowers.

cauline

Belonging to the stem.

Meaning: Latinized from the vernacular Macedonian name for a wide-brimmed hat
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-see-AR-um

caustic (syn. corrosive)

Capable of destroying by chemical action.

cauliflory (adj. cauliflorous)

The state of flowering from the branches or trunk.

Meaning: From Greek kaustos (burnt, scorched) referring to the dark leaf bases
Latin Pronunciation: KAWS-tis

Meaning: Growing on cliffs
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-tee-KOH-luh

Meaning: Burning or caustic to taste
Latin Pronunciation: KAWS-tik-uh

Meaning: Growing on cliffs
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-tee-KOH-lum

Meaning: Like Cautleya
Latin Pronunciation: kawt-ley-oy-dees

Meaning: Named after Cautley
Latin Pronunciation: KAWT-lee-uh

Meaning: Growing on cliffs
Latin Pronunciation: kaw-tee-KOH-lus

Meaning: Concave
Latin Pronunciation: KA-vuh

Meaning: Concave
Latin Pronunciation: KA-vum

Meaning: Concave
Latin Pronunciation: KA-vus

Meaning: Of or from Cayenne (capital city of French Guiana)
Latin Pronunciation: kae-yen-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Cayenne (capital city of French Guiana)
Latin Pronunciation: kae-yen-EN-sis

Meaning: Of or from the Cedarberg Mountains in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: see-dar-berg-EN-sis

Meaning: From the Cederberge region of South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: sed-rih-MON-tan-uh

Meaning: From Cederburg Mountains, South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: see-droh-MON-tah-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:see-droh-mon-TAY-nuh

Meaning: Latinized form of the South American name for this tree
Latin Pronunciation: SAY-buh

Meaning: Resembles Celatrus (genus name from the ancient Greek kelastros, the name of another tree)
Latin Pronunciation: see-LASS-trin-a

Meaning: Resembles Celatrus (genus name from the ancient Greek kelastros, the name of another tree)
Latin Pronunciation: see-lass-TROY-deez

Meaning: Of or from Celebes (now Sulawesi), an Indonesian island
Latin Pronunciation: sel-LAY-bik-uh

Meaning: Resembles Celatrus (genus name from the ancient Greek kelastros, the name of another tree)
Latin Pronunciation: see-LASS-trin-um

Meaning: Of or from Celebes (now Sulawesi), an Indonesian island
Latin Pronunciation: sel-LAY-bik-um

cell

One of the minute vesicles of protoplasm consisting typically of nucleus, cytoplasm, and, in the plant cell, photosynthetic pigments, all enclosed by a cell wall. Any structure containing a cavity, as the cells of an anther or ovary, etc.

Meaning: Of or from Celebes (now Sulawesi), an Indonesian island
Latin Pronunciation: sel-LAY-bik-us

cellular

Composed of short, transparent, thin-walled cells, distinct from fibrous or vascular cells.

cellulose

The complex carbohydrate that is the principal component of cell walls of plants.

cell membrane (syn. plasma membrane, syn. plasmalemma)

A semipermeable limiting layer of cell protoplasm.

cell system pasturing

An attempt to replicate the method of natural grazing by bison. Livestock are placed in one section or cell of pasture with access to water until all vegetation is eaten or trampled to the ground, then moved to the next section. A common pattern features 10 cells with livestock moved monthly so each section is grazed in different months each year to encourage increase of ice cream grasses. See also: continuous grazing, rotation grazing.

Meaning: Named for Jacques Martin Cels, 18th century French writer, breeder, and plantsman
Latin Pronunciation: SELS-ee-ay-nuh

Meaning: Named for Jacques Martin Cels, 18th century French writer, breeder, and plantsman
Latin Pronunciation: sels-ee-AY-num

Meaning: Most high or lofty; superlative of celsus
Latin Pronunciation: sel-SIS-sih-muh

Meaning: Named for Jacques Martin Cels, 18th century French writer, breeder, and plantsman
Latin Pronunciation: sels-ee-AY-nus

Meaning: From the Italian vernacular name for this plant
Latin Pronunciation: SIM-bruh

Meaning: Named for Jacques Martin Cels, 18th century French writer, breeder, and plantsman
Latin Pronunciation: SELS-ee-eye

cement

A powder of lime and other minerals burned together in a kiln and finely pulverized which, when combined with water, hardens with hydration. It is used as the binding agent in mortar and concrete.

Meaning: From the Greek cenchros, meaning millet
Latin Pronunciation: SENCH-rum

Meaning: Of or from Mt. Cenis
Latin Pronunciation: ken-ISS-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek cenchros, meaning millet
Latin Pronunciation: SENCH-rus

Latin Pronunciation: sen-iss-ee-us
Meaning: from Mt. Cenis (Alps Mts.).

cenospecies

All the ecospecies that may exchange genes through hybridization, like the violets, Viola.

Cenozic

Refers to the geologic era extending from 40 million years ago to the present era, which started approximately a million years ago.

Meaning: Derivation uncertain; possibly a dimunitive of the Greek kenteo (to prick or pierce)
Latin Pronunciation: ken-TEL-uh

center of diversity

A specific locality with high levels of genetic or species variance.

center of dispersal

The geographic area from which a taxon has spread or is spreading, such as where an alien plant was introduced.

Meaning: Resembling Centaurea (Latin, referring to the Centaur Chiron who discovered the medicinal properties of the plant)
Latin Pronunciation: sen-tar-OY-deez

center of endemism

A unique geographic region with species which are known only to that area. See also: endemic.

center of origin

The geographic area in which a taxon originated and from which it is spread.

center pivot irrigation

A method of agricultural irrigation using a long, wheeled arm with many nozzles that pivots about the center of a circle; used primarily in arid regions.

Meaning: Having 100 leaves
Latin Pronunciation: sen-tih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having 100 leaves
Latin Pronunciation: sen-tih-FOH-lee-us

central rays

The short immature ray florets comprising the central portion of the fully double flowers when at their prime stage (used in describing dahlias.)

Meaning: Having 100 leaves
Latin Pronunciation: sen-tih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek word for one hundred feet
Latin Pronunciation: sen-tih-PEE-da

central strand

The middle of many moss stems is made up of a bundle of much narrower and more slender cells, known as the "central strand.". This is usually continuous with the midrib or costa of the leaves, similar to the vascular bundles in the higher plants.

Meaning: From the Greek kentron (spur) and anthos (flower); referring to the flower having a spur-like base
Latin Pronunciation: sen-TRATH-ur-um

centrifugal

Progressing or developing outward from the center or axis.

centripetal

Progressing or developing inward from the outside and towards the center or axis.

centromere

The point or region on a chromosome to which the spindle attaches during mitosis and meiosis.

Meaning: From the Greek kentron, (a spur) and lepis, (a scale) referring to the long points on the two scale-like floral bracts
Latin Pronunciation: ken-troh-LEP-is

Meaning: Spur standard or sign
Latin Pronunciation: sen-TROH-sem-uh

centrosome

Transparent cytoplasm adjacent to the cell nucleus.

centrum

The central portion; used specifically for the large central air space in hollow stems, such as those of Equistetum.

Meaning: Onion
Latin Pronunciation: KEP-uh

Meaning: Onion
Latin Pronunciation: KEP-ee

Meaning: Head
Latin Pronunciation: SEF-uh-luh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KEF-uh-luh

Meaning: Flowering head
Latin Pronunciation: sef-uh-LAN-tha
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kef-uh-LAN-tha

Meaning: Head anther
Latin Pronunciation: sef-uh-LAN-ther-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kef-uh-LAN-ther-uh

cephalanthium

The flower head of a Compositae species.

Meaning: Flowering head
Latin Pronunciation: sef-uh-LAN-thum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kef-uh-LAN-thum

Latin Pronunciation: sef-al-lay-tus
Meaning: with a head (or heads).

cephalium

A woolly growth at the top of the stem of some cacti, such as Melocactus, on which the flowers appear.

cephalodia

Tiny thalli growing in the upper cortex of some lichens.

Meaning: From the Greek kephale (head) and pentandra (five stamens)
Latin Pronunciation: sef-uh-loh-pen-TAN-druh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kef-uh-loh-pen-TAN-druh

Meaning: Head-bearing
Latin Pronunciation: sef-uh-LOR-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kef-uh-LOR-us

Meaning: Of Cephalonia, one of the Ionian Islands off the coast of Greece
Latin Pronunciation: kef-al-OH-nee-kuh

Meaning: From the Greek kephale (head) and phyllum (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: sef-al-low-FILL-um

Meaning: Head-bearing
Latin Pronunciation: sef-uh-LOR-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kef-uh-LOR-uh

Meaning: From the Greek kephale (head), and stachys (ear of corn), referring to a spike
Latin Pronunciation: sef-uh-loh-STAY-kee-um

Meaning: Having a head
Latin Pronunciation: sef-ah-LOH-tees
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kef-ah-LOH-tees

Meaning: Head
Latin Pronunciation: SEF-uh-lus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KEF-uh-lus

Meaning: Waxy
Latin Pronunciation: ke-ra-KEE-um

Meaning: Head
Latin Pronunciation: SEF-uh-lum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:KEF-uh-lum

Meaning: Waxy
Latin Pronunciation: ke-ra-KEE-uh

Meaning: Of wax; pertaining to wax candles
Latin Pronunciation: ker-AR-ee-a
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ser-AR-ee-a

Meaning: Bearing wax
Latin Pronunciation: ke-ra-SEE-fer-uh

Meaning: Bearing wax
Latin Pronunciation: ke-ra-SEE-fer-um

Meaning: Waxy
Latin Pronunciation: ke-ra-KEE-us

Latin Pronunciation: see-ras-sif-er-us
Meaning: bearing cherries or cherry-like fruits.

Meaning: Shaped like a cherry
Latin Pronunciation: see-ras-if-FORM-mee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ser-uh-see-FORM-mee

Latin Pronunciation: see - ras - if - form - iss
Meaning: cherry-shaped.

Meaning: Resembling Cerastium (genus name from the Greek keras (horn); referring to the shape of the seed capsule); also spelled cerastoides
Latin Pronunciation: ker-ras-tee-OY-deez
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:see-ras-tee-OY-deez

Meaning: Latin name for cherry
Latin Pronunciation: KER-uh-sus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:SER-uh-sus

Meaning: Having a stalk like a horn
Latin Pronunciation: ser-uh-toh-KAW-luh

Meaning: Having a stalk like a horn
Latin Pronunciation: ka-ra-to-KAW-lee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ka-ra-to-KAW-lay

Meaning: Having a stalk like a horn
Latin Pronunciation: ser-uh-toh-KAW-lees

Meaning: resembling the genus Cerastium
Latin Pronunciation: ser-as-TOI-deez

Meaning: From the Greek keras (horn), referring to the seed pods of the carob
Latin Pronunciation: ser-ah-TOH-nee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek keras (horn) and petalon (petal), referring to the horn-like flowers
Latin Pronunciation: ser-at-oh-PET-uh-lum

Meaning: From the Greek keras (horn) and phyllum (leaves), referring to the horn-like leaves
Latin Pronunciation: ser-at-oh-FILL-uh

Meaning: Having a stalk like a horn
Latin Pronunciation: ka-ra-to-KAW-liss

Meaning: From the Greek keras (horn) and phyllum (leaves), referring to the horn-like leaves
Latin Pronunciation: ser-at-oh-FILL-um

Meaning: From the Greek keras (horn) and pteris (fern), referring to the horn-like appearance of this fern
Latin Pronunciation: ser-at-OP-ter-iss

Meaning: Having horned capsules
Latin Pronunciation: ser-uh-toh-THEK-uh

Meaning: From the Greek keras (horn) and phyllum (leaves), referring to the horn-like leaves
Latin Pronunciation: ser-at-oh-FILL-us

Meaning: From the Greek cerberus, a three-headed dog in Greek mythology
Latin Pronunciation: SER-ber-uh

Meaning: Having leaves like Cercis (Redbud Tree)
Latin Pronunciation: ser-uh-sid-ih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Waxy, from the Greek keros, (wax)
Latin Pronunciation: KER-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:SER-ee-uh

cereal

Grain or plants that produce grain--mostly from the Graminae family--used as food.

Meaning: Pertaining to agriculture; Ceres was the Greek goddess of farming
Latin Pronunciation: ser-ee-AY-lee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ker-ee-AY-lee

Meaning: Pertaining to agriculture; Ceres was the Greek goddess of farming
Latin Pronunciation: ser-ee-AY-liss
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ker-ee-AY-liss

Meaning: Waxy leaves
Latin Pronunciation: ker-ee-FOH-lee-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ser-ee-FOH-lee-um

Latin Pronunciation: see-ref-foh-lee-us
Meaning: waxy- leaved.

Meaning: Waxy leaves
Latin Pronunciation: ker-ee-FOH-lee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ser-ee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Shaped like Cereus (genus name meaning wax candle or torch)
Latin Pronunciation: ker-ee-IF-for-miss

Meaning: Resembles Cerenus, a genus name meaning wax candle or torch
Latin Pronunciation: ker-ee-OY-deez
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ser-ee-OY-deez

Meaning: Of or from the Ceres Karoo area of South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: ker-es-ee-AH-na

Meaning: Of or from the Ceres Karoo area of South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: ker-es-ee-AH-nus

Meaning: WA wax candle, torch
Latin Pronunciation: KER-ee-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:SER-ee-um

Meaning: Of or from the Ceres Karoo area of South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: ker-es-ee-AH-num

Latin Pronunciation: see-rif-er-us
Meaning: wax-bearing.

ceriferous

Wax-producing; waxy.

Meaning: Bearing wax
Latin Pronunciation: ker-EE-fer-um

Meaning: Waxy
Latin Pronunciation: ker-REE-nuh

Meaning: Bearing wax
Latin Pronunciation: ker-EE-fer-us

Meaning: Waxy
Latin Pronunciation: ker-REE-num

Meaning: Like the genus Cerinthe
Latin Pronunciation: ser-in-THOY-deez

cernuous

Drooping or nodding capsule, somewhat inclined as opposed to erect.

Meaning: Nodding
Latin Pronunciation: SER-new-a
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:SERN-yoo-a

Meaning: Waxy
Latin Pronunciation: ker-REE-nus

Meaning: Nodding
Latin Pronunciation: SER-new-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:SERN-yoo-um

Latin Pronunciation: ser-new-us
Meaning: bent, nodding (cernuous).

Meaning: From the Greek keros (wax) and xylon (wood)
Latin Pronunciation: ser-oh-ZY-lon

Meaning: Ancient Latin name for the Turkey or mossy-cup Oak; now the specific epithet
Latin Pronunciation: SAIR-iss

certified seed

Seeds that have been approved by a legally recognized certifying agency as being qualified under established standards of germination; they are free from disease and weeds and are true to variety.

Meaning: Having a neck
Latin Pronunciation: kerv-ee-KAR-ee-uh

Meaning: Deer (or fawn) colored
Latin Pronunciation: ser-vee-AY-na

Meaning: Having a neck
Latin Pronunciation: kerv-ee-KAR-ee-um

Meaning: Having a neck
Latin Pronunciation: kerv-ee-KAR-ee-us

Meaning: Deer-colored
Latin Pronunciation: ser-VEE-num

Meaning: Deer-colored
Latin Pronunciation: ser-VEE-na

Meaning: Deer-colored
Latin Pronunciation: ser-VEE-nus

cespitose (syn. caespitose)

Growing in tufts; forming mats or tufts; often refers to a short plant with many stems or branches, forming a cushion appearance.

Meaning: Possibly an Arabic or Celtic word originaly applied to this plant
Latin Pronunciation: KET-er-ak
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:SET-er-ak

Latin Pronunciation: see-lan-ik-us
Meaning: of Ceylon.

Meaning: Of or from Chaco, Argentina
Latin Pronunciation: cha-ko-en-sey

Meaning: Named for John Chabaud, who had this Aloe flowering in his garden
Latin Pronunciation: shaw-BOH-dee-eye

Meaning: Of or from Charco, Argentina
Latin Pronunciation: cha-ko-en-sis

Meaning: From the Greek chaino (gape) and and aktos (rays), refers to to the enlarged floral tube of the ray flowers
Latin Pronunciation: kee-NAK-tis

Meaning: Split nose (snout), referring to the flower's shape
Latin Pronunciation: kee-nor-RYE-num

Meaning: From the Greek chairo (to please) and phyllon (a leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: kee-roh-FIL-a

Meaning: Resembles Chaerophyllum (genus name from the Greek chairo, to please; and phyllon, a leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: kee-roh-fil-OY-deez

Meaning: From the Greek chairo (to please) and phyllon (a leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: kee-roh-FIL-us

Meaning: From the Greek chaite (bristle) and adelphia (brother), referring to the united bristles of the pappus
Latin Pronunciation: kay-ta-DEL-fee-uh

chaff

A small thin scale or bract, becoming dry and membranous.

chafers

Beetles that attack plant roots as larvae and leaves as adults.

Meaning: Possibly from the Greek for chaete (loose, flowing hair) and pappus, a modified calyx with downy bristles or hairs
Latin Pronunciation: kay-TO-pap-puh

chaffy

Having or resembling chaff.

Meaning: Named for Dominique Chaix, 18th century botanist
Latin Pronunciation: kay-IKX-ee-eye

chain saw

1. A power tool for cutting timber. 2. A tool with interlocking individual teeth that are chained together, with ropes on either end and powered by muscle.

chalaza

The area of an ovule, opposite the micropyle, to which the funicle is attached.

Meaning: Of or from Chalcedon (Kadikoy, Turkey)
Latin Pronunciation: kalk-ee-DON-ee-kum

Latin Pronunciation: kal-sed-don-ik-us
Meaning: of Chalcedon (Asia Minor).

Meaning: Of or from Aleppo, in northwestern Syria near the Mediterranean Sea
Latin Pronunciation: chal-ep-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Chalcedon (Kadikoy, Turkey)
Latin Pronunciation: kalk-ee-DON-ee-kuh

Meaning: Of or from Aleppo, in northwestern Syria near the Mediterranean Sea
Latin Pronunciation: chal-ep-EN-sis

chalk

Soft gray, buff, or white limestone formed from the shells of foraminifers.

Meaning: From the Latin chalybs (steel, iron gray); the Chalybes were of Asia Minor and famous for their steel
Latin Pronunciation: kuh-LEE-bee-uh

Meaning: Of or from the area of the Llanos de Challe National Park in Chile
Latin Pronunciation: chah-YEN-sis

Meaning: From the Latin chalybs (steel, iron gray); the Chalybes were of Asia Minor and famous for their steel
Latin Pronunciation: kuh-LEE-bee-us

Meaning: Dwarf boxwood
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-BUKS-us

Meaning: Dwarf boxwood
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-BUKS-ee

Meaning: From the Greek chamae (low); and Chaenactis, from the Greek chaino (gape) and and aktos (rays)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-kee-NAK-tis

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (ground) and cereus (wax candle, torch)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-KER-ee-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-ay-SER-ee-us

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (dwarf) and crista (crest)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-KRIS-tuh

Meaning: Dwarf (false) cypress
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ee-ky-par-ISS-us

Meaning: Having leaves like chamaedrys (an old name for Germander, Dwarf Oak)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ee-drih-FOH-lee-a

Meaning: Having leaves like chamaedrys (an old name for Germander, Dwarf Oak)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ee-drih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having leaves like chamaedrys (an old name for Germander, Dwarf Oak)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ee-drih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Like chamaedrys
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-dry-OY-deez

Meaning: Dwarf iris
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-AIR-id-eez

Meaning: An old name for Germander, Dwarf Oak
Latin Pronunciation: kam-EE-drees

Meaning: Dwarf iris
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-EYE-ris

Meaning: The derivation is obscure, possibly from the Greek chamai (low, dwarf) and leucos (white)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-LAU-see-um

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (dwarf or growing near the ground) and melum (apple),
Latin Pronunciation: kam-AY-mel-um

Meaning: From the greek chamae (low, ground) and nerion (Greek name for oleander)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-NER-ee-on

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (ground, dwarf) and peuce (fir), referring to the shrubby, pine-like appearance of the plant
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-PEW-kee

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (ground, dwarf) and periklymenon (mythological figure whose name was given to honeysuckle)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-per-ee-KLY-men-um

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (dwarf) and lirion (lily)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-LEER-ee-um

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (low, dwarf) and saracha, a Spanish monk and botanist
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-sar-AWK-uh

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (on the ground) and skyon (fig)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-SY-kee

Meaning: From the Greek Khamai (dwarf) and skilla (classic name for the sea-onion) Urginea maritima
Latin Pronunciation: kam-AY-skil-uh

Meaning: Of or from Khao Chamao, a mountain that is the only known habitat of this endangered species
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ay-oh-EN-sis

chambered

Pith which is interrupted by hollow spaces.

Meaning: Dwarf iris
Latin Pronunciation: kam-e-iris

Meaning: Named after Chambeyron
Latin Pronunciation: kam-bey-ROH-nee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek chamae (low, ground), referring to the creeping habit
Latin Pronunciation: kam-AY-lee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kam-AY-lay-uh

Meaning: Named for Adelbert von Chamisso, French-born 18th century German naturalist on the "Rurik" which visited Alaska and California in 1816
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ISS-oh-nis

Meaning: From the Greek chamai (dwarf) and Eranthemum (genus name meaning beautiful flower)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-er-RAN-the-mum

Meaning: Named for Adelbert von Chamisso, French-born 18th century German naturalist on the "Rurik" which visited Alaska and California in 1816
Latin Pronunciation: kam-ISS-so-eye

Meaning: Latinized form of Greek khamai or chamai (on ground)
Latin Pronunciation: kam-oh-ME-luh

Meaning: Named for 19th century English botanist John George Champion, who studied the flora of East Asia
Latin Pronunciation: cham-pee-OH-nee-a

Meaning: Named for 19th century English botanist John George Champion, who studied the flora of East Asia
Latin Pronunciation: cham-pee-OH-nee-eye

Meaning: Named for Harley Pierce Chandler, 19th century botanist in California (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: CHAND-ler-eye

Meaning: Named for Alfred Chandler, 19th century nurseryman in Vauxhall
Latin Pronunciation: CHAND-ler-ee-eye

Meaning: Of or from Chang Jiang (aka Yangtze) River, China
Latin Pronunciation: chan-jyong-EN-sis

channeled

Deeply grooved longitudinally, like a gutter.

Meaning: Named for Alvan Wentworth Chapman, 19th century American botanist
Latin Pronunciation: chap-MAN-ee-eye

chaparral

A dry land, xerophytic, formation of impenetrable thickets, composed of stiff, thorny, small-leaved shrubs.

Meaning: Named for Jean-Antoine Claude, comte Chaptal de Chanteloup, 19th century French chemist and statesman
Latin Pronunciation: shap-TAL-ee-a

Meaning: From xaraxias, the ancient name Dioscorides used for this species
Latin Pronunciation: kar-RAY-see-as

character

An attribute or property of an organism, functional or structural, which may be adapted through environmental conditions within genetically determined limits.

Meaning: A pre-Linnean name, used as the specific epithet of Momordica charantia
Latin Pronunciation: char-AN-tee-a

Meaning: Named after Chantrier Freres
Latin Pronunciation: shon-tree-ER-ee

characteristic diversity

The pattern of distribution and abundance of habitats and their species populations under conditions where human influence on the ecosystem is no greater than that of any other biotic factor.

Meaning: Papery
Latin Pronunciation: char-TAY-see-uh

chartaceous

Having the texture of writing paper or parchment and usually not green.

Meaning: Papery
Latin Pronunciation: char-TAY-see-um

chart quadrat

A cart or map of a sample area showing the placement and area of each plant.

Meaning: From the Greek chasme (gaping) and anthos (flower)
Latin Pronunciation: chas-MAN-thee

Meaning: From the Greek chasme (gaping) and anthe (flower)
Latin Pronunciation: chas-MAN-thee-um

Meaning: From the Greek chasme (gaping) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: chas-mat-oh-FIL-um

chasmogamy (adj. chasmogamous)

The opening of the perianth of a flower for the purpose of fertilization. See also: cleistogamy.

Meaning: Latinized form of the Mayan name for this plant
Latin Pronunciation: chay-uh-MANZ-uh

chasmophyte

A plant which grows in the crevices of rocks and rock faces. See also: chomophyte.

check dam

A short low dam constructed in a waterway to decrease the sp.ed of stream flow and to allow sediments to drop from the water.

Meaning: Named for Thomas Frederick Cheeseman, early 20th century British-born, self-trained botanist who lived in Auckland, New Zealand
Latin Pronunciation: cheez-MAN-ee-eye

Meaning: Lipped flower
Latin Pronunciation: kay-LAN-tha
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:chey-LAN-tha

Meaning: Having leaves like that of Cheiranthus, an old name for a wallflower
Latin Pronunciation: ky-lan-thee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Flowers in winter
Latin Pronunciation: kay-MAN-tha
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:chey-MAN-tha

Meaning: Flowers in winter
Latin Pronunciation: kay-MAN-thum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:chey-MAN-thum

Meaning: Having foliage like Cheiranthus (genus name from the Greek cheir, hand; and anthos, flower)
Latin Pronunciation: kye-ranth-ih-FOH-lee-a

Meaning: Having foliage like Cheiranthus (genus name from the Greek cheir, hand; and anthos, flower)
Latin Pronunciation: kye-ranth-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Lipped flower
Latin Pronunciation: kay-LAN-thus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:chey-LAN-thus

Meaning: Flowers in winter
Latin Pronunciation: kay-MAN-thus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:chey-MAN-thus

Meaning: Red-flowered; alternately from the Greek cheir meaning a hand
Latin Pronunciation: kye-EE-ee

Meaning: From the Greek cheir (hand) and pleura (side, rib)
Latin Pronunciation: kye-ro-PLOOR-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek cheiris (sheath) and opsis (resembling), referring to the leaves forming a sheath covering the emerging leaves
Latin Pronunciation: kye-rid-OP-sis

Meaning: Lipped flower
Latin Pronunciation: kay-LAN-thum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:chey-LAN-thum

chelate (n. chelator, n. chelation)

The process whereby an organic chemical bonds with and removes free metal ions from solutions.

Meaning: Turtle-fruit
Latin Pronunciation: kee-lee-oh-KAR-pa
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:kay-lee-lee-oh-KAR-pa

chemical stratification

A condition found in temperate lakes during the summer and winter stagnation periods in which certain horizontal layers become different chemically from adjacent ones, often causing turnover. See also: thermal stratification.

chemoautotrophic

Being autotrophic and oxidizing an inorganic compound as a source of energy, as a chemoautotrophic bacteria.

chemoorganotrophic

Describes a heterotroph which oxidizes chemical bonds for energy but requires organic carbon compounds to grow.

chemolithotrophic

Describes an organism which obtains its energy from the oxidation of inorganic compounds.

chemosynthesis

A process found in certain bacteria in which nutrition is assured by the ability to oxidize inorganic materials.

chemotropism

Movement or growth of cells or organisms in response to chemical stimuli.

chemotaxis

Movement of an organism caused by a chemical stimulus.

Meaning: Named for Cheng Wan-Chun, 20th century dendrology professor from the National Central University
Latin Pronunciation: cheng-ee-AH-na

chemotrophic

Refers to an organism that produces energy from a chemical reaction which does not depend on light. See also: heterotrophic, autotrophic, phototrophic.

Meaning: Named for Cheng Wan-Chun, 20th century dendrology professor from the National Central University
Latin Pronunciation: cheng-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Named for Cheng Wan-Chun, 20th century dendrology professor from the National Central University
Latin Pronunciation: CHENG-ee-eye

chemotype

A population of plants belonging to a particular species that differs chemically from others of that species.

Meaning: The Goosefoot (Chenopodium) family
Latin Pronunciation: ken-oh-poh-dee-AY-see-ay

Meaning: Resembles Chenopodium (genus name meaning goosefoot, referring to the shape of the leaves in some species
Latin Pronunciation: ken-oh-poh-dee-OY-deez

Meaning: Like the genus Cherleria (now Minuartia)
Latin Pronunciation: ker-ler-ee-OY-deez
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:cher-ler-ee-OY-deez

chernozem (syn. black earth)

A zonal group of soils with deep fertile surface soil, dark brown to black in color, rich in organic matter, grading into lighter colored soil below, and having a calcium carbonate layer at a depth of 1.5 to 4 feet (45 to 120 cm.). These are often found under tall grasslands in a temperate to cool, somewhat humid climate.

chestnuts soils

A zonal group of soils with dark brown surface horizons grading into lighter colored soil below, and a calcium carbonate layer at depths of one to four feet (30 to 120 cm.). These are associated with grasslands in temperate to cool, subhumid to semiarid climates; moister than brown soils, drier than chernozem.

chianophile

A plant that can endure long snowy winters, or one that requires snow cover in winter.

chianophobe

A plant that does not tolerate long snowy winters, or one that can survive with little or no snow cover during winter.

Meaning: Named for Chiapas, Mexico where this cactus grows
Latin Pronunciation: chee-ah-PAY-see-uh

chiasma

A crosswise fusion, as occurs with chromosomes.

Meaning: Of or from Chiapas, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: chee-ah-PEN-see

Meaning: From the Greek chiastos (diagonally arranged) and phyllon (a leaf); refers to the arrangement of the pairs of opposite leaves
Latin Pronunciation: kee-as-toh-FILL-um

Meaning: Of or from Chiapa, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: chee-ah-PEN-sis

chicon

The blanched, compact shoots of chicory (Cichoricum intybus).

Meaning: Of or from Chihuahua, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: chee-wah-wah-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Chihuahua, Mexico
Latin Pronunciation: chee-wah-wah-EN-sis

Latin Pronunciation: chil-len-siss
Meaning: of Chile.

Meaning: Of or from Chile
Latin Pronunciation: chil-ee-EN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:chil-ee-EN-say