ear

The seed bearing spike of a grass.

earthworm

Any of the terrestrial annelid worms of the class Oligochaeta, especially those of the family Lumbricidae, that aerate and enrich soil.

earth anchors

Steel pegs with semicircular bases to act as supports for larger trees, tying animals, etc.

Meaning: Of the sea
Latin Pronunciation: EAR-ee-nuh

earwigs

An insect that makes ragged holes flowers and leaves.

Meaning: Named for Alice Eastwood, 20th century teacher, collector, and author ofA Popular Flora of Denver, Colorado
Latin Pronunciation: eest-WOOD-ee-a

Meaning: Named for Alice Eastwood, 20th century teacher, collector, and author ofA Popular Flora of Denver, Colorado
Latin Pronunciation: eest-wood-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Named for Alice Eastwood, 20th century teacher, collector, and author ofA Popular Flora of Denver, Colorado
Latin Pronunciation: eest-wood-ee-AH-nus

Meaning: Named for Alice Eastwood, 20th century teacher, collector, and author ofA Popular Flora of Denver, Colorado
Latin Pronunciation: eest-wood-ee-AH-na

Meaning: Resembling ebony
Latin Pronunciation: eb-en-NAY-see-uh

Meaning: Named for Eaton, possibly Alva Augustus, a 19th century self-taught American botanist
Latin Pronunciation: ee-TON-ee-eye

Meaning: Resembling ebony
Latin Pronunciation: eb-en-NAY-see-um

Meaning: Named for Alice Eastwood, 20th century teacher, collector, and author ofA Popular Flora of Denver, Colorado
Latin Pronunciation: eest-WOOD-ee-ay

Meaning: Named for JWE Ebbinge
Latin Pronunciation: eb-BING-ee-eye

Meaning: Resembling ebony
Latin Pronunciation: eb-en-NAY-see-us

Meaning: Named for Alice Eastwood, 20th century teacher, collector, and author ofA Popular Flora of Denver, Colorado
Latin Pronunciation: eest-WOOD-ee-eye

Meaning: Ebony-like
Latin Pronunciation: eb-en-OY-deez

ebeneous

Black as ebony.

Meaning: Ebony-black
Latin Pronunciation: EE-ben-um

Meaning: From the Greek ebenos, which is of Egyptian origin and refers to another plant
Latin Pronunciation: EE-ben-us

Meaning: Named for Father Eberlanz, early 20th century collector of succulent plants in Africa
Latin Pronunciation: eb-er-LAN-zee-uh

Meaning: Of or from York (England)
Latin Pronunciation: e-bor-uh-SEN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:e-bor-uh-SEN-say

Meaning: Of or from York (England)
Latin Pronunciation: e-bor-uh-SEN-sis

Meaning: Without bracts
Latin Pronunciation: e-brak-tee-AY-tum

Meaning: Without bracts
Latin Pronunciation: e-brak-tee-AY-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: ee - brak - tee - ay - tus
Meaning: bractless.

Meaning: Elder
Latin Pronunciation: EB-buh-lus

Meaning: Ivory white
Latin Pronunciation: eb-URN-ee-uh

Latin Pronunciation: ee-burn-ee-us
Meaning: ivory-white.

Meaning: Ivory white
Latin Pronunciation: eb-URN-ee-um

Meaning: Having foliage white, like ivory
Latin Pronunciation: ee-burn-ih-FOH-lee-a

ecad (syn. ecophene, syn. environmental form)

1. A habitat form. 2. An organism showing somatic adaptations to a certain environment that are not hereditary. See also: phenotype, ecotype.

Meaning: Without a spur; spurless
Latin Pronunciation: e-kal-ka-RAY-tuh

Meaning: Without a spur; spurless
Latin Pronunciation: e-kal-ka-RAY-tus

ecallose

With no callus.

Meaning: Without a spur; spurless
Latin Pronunciation: e-kal-ka-RAY-tum

eccentric

Not located at the geometrical center.

Meaning: From the Greek ekkremes (pendulous, hanging) and karpos ( fruit)
Latin Pronunciation: ek-rem-oh-KAR-puh

echard

Soil water not available for absorption by plants.

ecesis

The establishment of a plant or animal in a new habitat.

Meaning: Named for Pedro Gregorio Echeandia y Jimenez, 19th century Spanish botanist in Zaragosa
Latin Pronunciation: ek-ee-AN-dee-a

Meaning: Prickly
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-AY-tuh

echinate

Beset with prickles.

Meaning: Spiny fruit; hedgehog fruit
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-KAR-puh

Meaning: Prickly
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-AY-tum

Latin Pronunciation: ek - in - nay - tus
Meaning: bristly, prickly.

Meaning: Spiny fruit; hedgehog fruit
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-KAR-pum

Latin Pronunciation: ek - in - oh - karp - us
Meaning: prickly-fruited.

Meaning: From the Greek echinos (hedgehog), and chloa (grass or young herbage)
Latin Pronunciation: ek-ih-NOK-loh-uh

Meaning: From the Greek echninos (hedgehog) and doros (bag, leather bottle), referring to the spiny achenes
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-OH-dor-us

Meaning: From the Latin echinos (hedgehog), fossula (little ditch) and cactus
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-foss-yoo-loh-KAK-tus

Meaning: Like Echinops (the Greek name for a hedgehog, referring to the spines)
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-OY-deez

Meaning: From the Greek echinos (spiny, prickly) and pepon (large melon)
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-PEP-on

Meaning: Like Echinops (the Greek name for a hedgehog, referring to the spines)
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-OY-dee-a

Meaning: From Greek echinos (hedgehog) and pogon (beard), referring to the bristly inflorescence
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-POH-gon

Meaning: Wtih prickly sepals
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-SEP-uh-luh

Latin Pronunciation: ek - in - oh - sep - al -us
Meaning: prickly-sepaled.

Meaning: Wtih prickly sepals
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-SEP-uh-lum

Meaning: With spiny seeds
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-SPER-mum

Meaning: With spiny seeds
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-SPER-muh

Meaning: From the Greek echis (viper), referrring to the plant's toxicity and twining nature
Latin Pronunciation: ek-KY-tees

Meaning: From the Latin e- (prefix meaning ex or out), and cirrhosa (having tendrils or curly hair)
Latin Pronunciation: e-sir-ROH-suh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:e-kir-ROH-suh

Meaning: Resembling Echium (Viper's Bugloss)
Latin Pronunciation: ek-ee-OY-deez

echolocation

1. Acoustic orientation such as that used in sonar. The ability of animals, e.g., bats, to emit high frequency sounds and then determine the whereabouts of themselves and other objects by hearing the corresponding echoes the sounds produce.

eciliate

Lacking cilia.

Meaning: With spiny seeds
Latin Pronunciation: ek-in-oh-SPER-mus

ecize

To become established, to spread, to invade. See also: ecesis.

Meaning: Named for Dr. Christian Friedrich Ecklon, 19th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: ek-lon-ee-AY-nus

Meaning: Named for Dr. Christian Friedrich Ecklon, 19th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: ek-lon-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Dr. Christian Friedrich Ecklon, 19th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: ek-LON-iss

balance of nature (alt. ecological balance, alt. biotic balance, syn. dynamic equilibrium, syn. biotic equilibrium)

A term for an ideal condition in which the interrelationships of organisms to one another and their environment appear harmonious, like a climax forest. In reality, the balance is continually upset by natural events.

ecocline

1. The rate of increase or decrease of a variable character in the adaptation of a species, associated with environmental changes. See geocline. 2. The group exhibiting such a gradient. 3. A gradient of ecosystems along an environmental gradient, including both the gradient of natural communities and the complex gradient of environmental conditions. See also: coenocline.

ecological efficiency

A mathematical statement of the ratio between the energy available to an organism or group or group processes, and the energy actually expended. For example, a bear may use less calories to hunt a rabbit during the summer than the calories gained from the rabbit, but winter hunting expends more than is gained, so it is more ecologically efficient for bears to hibernate. A 10 percent gain is average, 20 percent very good, 5 percent typical of the top of the food chain.

ecological bonitation

The numerical statement of well-being of an organism or group during a season or in a specific locality. See also: bonitation, biotic potential.

ecological amplitude (alt. ecological valence)

The variety of environmental conditions within which an organism can survive and replace itself, or a process can function. See also: tolerance, optimum, pessimum.

ecological equivalence

The case in which two or more species have enough similarities so that any could replace the other in a specified habitat. See also: ecological amplitude, niche.

ecological equilibrium

See also: the balance of nature, dynamic equilibrium.

ecological factor

Any variable of the environment that impacts the life of one or more organisms. May be classified into A: climatic, physiographic, edaphic and biotic factors; or B: direct, indirect, and remote factors. See also: biotic, limiting factor, density dependent factor.

ecological equivalent

An organism capable of replacing another in a habitat. See also: ecological equivalence, vicariation.

ecological pyramid (alt. pyramid of numbers, Eltonian pyramid)

The concept that in most food chains, the number of individuals decreases at each stage, with huge numbers of tiny individuals at the base and a few large individuals at the top, as displayed by millions of plankton, a moderate number of large fish, and a few eagles.

ecological longevity

Life span; the average length of life of a species under stated conditions.

Meaning: Without horns
Latin Pronunciation: ee-kor-NOO-tuh

ecologic dominance

The state in communities in which one or more species, by their size, number or coverage, exert considerable influence or control over the associated species.

ecology (adj. ecological)

The study of the relation of organisms to their environments.

Latin Pronunciation: ee-kor-new-tus
Meaning: hornless.

ecorollate

Without petals.

ecorticate

Lacking a cortex.

Meaning: Without horns
Latin Pronunciation: ee-kor-NOO-tum

ecospecies

A taxonomic species described in terms of its ecological characteristics, usually including two or more ecotypes capable of interbreeding.

ecostate

Lacking a costa.

ecosystem

An interacting complex of a community, consisting of plants and/or animals, and its environment functioning as an ecological unit.

ecotone

A transition area between two adjacent ecological communities containing characteristic species of each, and sometimes, species unique to the area.

ecotype (syn. ecological race, adj. ecotypic)

A subdivision of an ecospecies that survives as a distinct population through environmental selection and isolation; comparable to a taxonomic subspecies.

ectoplasm

Cytoplasm in an amoeba lacking granules, found below plasma membrane.

ecotourism

Travel undertaken to areas of unique natural or ecologic quality, or the provision of services to facilitate such travel.

ectophagous

Refers to an animal that feeds from the outside of a structure, such as a rabbit eating bark from a shrub. See also: entophagous.

edaphic

1. Of or relating to soil. 2. Determined by the soil as opposed to climate.

ectoparasite

A parasite living on the outside surface of a host, like a tick on a deer.

ectotrophic

Refers to fungi that grow on the surface covering of roots. See also: endotrophic, mycorrhiza.

edaphic community (alt. edaphic climax)

A climax stage determined by factors related to the soil, pH, drainage, salinity, etc. See also: physiographic climax, biotic climax.

edaphic factor

A condition of the soil that is physical, chemical, or biological that influences organisms growing there. See also: biotic, climatic, ecological factor.

edaphic community (alt. edaphic climax)

A climax stage determined by factors related to the soil, pH, drainage, salinity, etc. See also: physiographic climax, biotic climax.

Meaning: Toothless
Latin Pronunciation: e-DEN-tay-tuh

edaphology

The study of soils.

edaphon

1. An organism that lives in the soil, such as a fungus, nematode, bacterium, etc. 2. The aggregate of organisms in the soil, with the exception of plant parts like roots. See also: plankton.

edentate

With no teeth.

Meaning: Without teeth; toothless
Latin Pronunciation: e-DEN-tuh-luh

Meaning: Without teeth; toothless
Latin Pronunciation: e-DEN-tuh-lum

Meaning: Without teeth; toothless
Latin Pronunciation: e-DEN-tuh-lus

edge

The border between two types of habitat, e.g., between forest and meadow, or stream and prairie, with vegetation of each type.

edger

A tool used to trim grass and its roots away from sidewalks and curbs.

edge effect

The impact of two diverse communities where they abut, such as where a stream adjoins a prairie. See also: ecotone.

Meaning: Named for Michael Pakenham Edgeworth, 19th century English botanist and plant collector with the Bengal Civil Service in Aden, Sri Lanka and India
Latin Pronunciation: edj-WOR-thee-eye

Meaning: Named for Miss Edith Cole, who first collected this plant in Somalia in the late 19th century
Latin Pronunciation: ee-dith-KOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Of highlands
Latin Pronunciation: eh-deh-TOR-um

eelworms

Microscopic organisms that enter the tissues of plants and cause rotting.

EDTA (syn. ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid)

The abbreviation for the white crystalline acid often used as a chelating agent.

Meaning: Named for George Warren Edwards, 19th century Governor of the Crown Colony of Labuan
Alternative Meaning:Of or from the Edwards Plateau in Texas, which was named for Hayden Edwards, one of the early American settlers of the area
Latin Pronunciation: ed-wards-ee-AY-na

effective soil depth (syn. working depth)

The extent to which roots of plants penetrate readily to reach water and nutrients.

Latin Pronunciation: ed-yew-liss
Meaning: edible.

effective temperature range

The spread between the highest and lowest temperatures in which an organism can survive and reproduce. See also: ecological amplitude, tolerance.

effluent

The outflow of water or other fluid. See also: influent.

Meaning: Edible
Latin Pronunciation: ED-yew-lee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ED-yew-lay

Meaning: Loose
Latin Pronunciation: eff-YOO-suh

efflorescence

1. The action or process of developing and unfolding as if coming into flower. 2. A white powdery deposit appearing on the surface of stone, brick, or cement.

effuse

Very loosely spreading.

Latin Pronunciation: ef-few-sus
Meaning: loose-spreading.

Meaning: Loose
Latin Pronunciation: eff-YOO-sum

Meaning: Named for a Roman nymph or goddess and adviser to Numa Pompilius
Latin Pronunciation: ee-JEE-ree-uh

egg

The nonmotile female sex cell ( gamete).

Meaning: Of or from Egalik Fjord, Greenland
Latin Pronunciation: ee-gah-lik-SEN-sis

egg-shaped

Shaped like an egg, with the broadest portion below the middle.

Meaning: Named for Henrik [Heinrich] Franz Alexander Baron von Eggers, 19th century Danish soldier and botanist in Ecuador
Latin Pronunciation: eg-ER-see-eye

Meaning: Named for Henrik [Heinrich] Franz Alexander Baron von Eggers, 19th century Danish soldier and botanist in Ecuador
Latin Pronunciation: eg-er-see-AY-nuh

eglandular

Without glands.

Meaning: From aiglent, an old French name for Sweetbrier
Latin Pronunciation: eg-lan-TER-ee-uh

Meaning: Of or from Egmont National Park in New Zealand
Latin Pronunciation: eg-mont-ee-AH-nuh

Latin Pronunciation: eb-en-nay-see-us
Meaning: ebony- like.

Meaning: Named for Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg, 19th century German naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: er-en-BERG-ee-a

Meaning: Named for Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg, 19th century German naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: er-en-berg-ee-AH-na

Meaning: Named for Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg, 19th century German naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: er-en-berg-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Named for Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg, 19th century German naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: er-en-berg-ee-AH-nus

Meaning: Named for Jacob Friedrich Ehrhart, an 18th century Swiss botanist
Latin Pronunciation: ER-hart-uh

Meaning: Named for Georg Dionysius Ehret, 18th century botanical artist
Latin Pronunciation: eh-RET-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:e-REE-tee-uh

Meaning: Named for Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg, 19th century German naturalist
Latin Pronunciation: er-en-BERG-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Friedrich Ehrendorfer, 20th century Austrian botanist professor in the Department of Higher Plant Systematics and Evolution at the University of Vienna
Latin Pronunciation: eh-ren-dor-FAIR-ee-a
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:eh-ren-dorf-uh-REE-a

Meaning: Named for Erik Leonard Ekman, 19th century Swedish botanist
Latin Pronunciation: ek-MAN-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Wilhelm Eichler, German plant collector who discovered the species of tulip; August Wilhelm Eichler, 19th century German professor of Botany
Latin Pronunciation: IKE-ler-ee

eilliptic

Widest in the middle and tapering evenly to both ends.

Meaning: Having foliage resembling Elaeagnus (from the Greek elaia, olive; and agnos, pure)
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-ag-ne-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having foliage resembling Elaeagnus (from the Greek elaia, olive; and agnos, pure)
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-ag-ne-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: From the Greek elaia (olive) and agnos (pure), possibly referring to the fruitv
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-AG-nos

Meaning: Having foliage resembling Elaeagnus (from the Greek elaia, olive; and agnos, pure)
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-ag-ne-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: From the Greek elaia (olive) and refers to the olives and olive oil used commercially
Latin Pronunciation: el-LEE-iss

elaioplast

A protoplasmic body in plants in which oil is formed and stored. See also: plastid.

elaiosome

A fleshy, protein-rich "food patch" on some seeds or fruits it is attractive to ants and thus aids dispersal.

elasticity

The capability of a strained body to recover its size and shape after deformation.

Latin Pronunciation: el-last-ik-us
Meaning: elastic (or rubber-producing).

Meaning: From Greek elatos (elastic) and stema (stamen); referring to stamens first inflexed and then reflexing
Latin Pronunciation: ee-las-toh-STEM-a

Meaning: Stretchable, rubbery, referring to latex sap
Latin Pronunciation: ee-LASS-tih-kuh

Meaning: Stretchable, rubbery, referring to latex sap
Latin Pronunciation: ee-LASS-tih-kum

elater

A plant structure functioning in the distribution of spores, such bands which contract and expand when moistened or dried to disperse spores and the strap-shaped appendages of Equisetum spores.

Meaning: Tall
Latin Pronunciation: el-AH-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: ee-lay-tee-or
Meaning: taller.

Meaning: Resembles Elatine (genus name, from the ancient Greek word for this plant)
Latin Pronunciation: el-a-ty-NOY-deez

Meaning: From the Greek elatos (to drive, strike), referring to the forceful expulsion of seeds from this plant; also the extract is a violent purgative
Latin Pronunciation: ee-lay-TER-ee-um

Meaning: Tall
Latin Pronunciation: el-AH-tee-us

Meaning: Ancient Greek name for this plant
Latin Pronunciation: el-uh-TY-nee

Meaning: From the Greek elatos (driving or striking), and stema (stamen), referring to the stamens springing up
Latin Pronunciation: ee-lay-toh-STEM-uh

Meaning: Tall
Latin Pronunciation: el-AH-tum

Latin Pronunciation: ee-lay-tus
Meaning: tall.

Meaning: Named for the sandy lowland region where this Pine species is indigenous
Latin Pronunciation: el-DAR-ee-kuh

Meaning: Most elegant
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-gan-TISS-ee-mum

Latin Pronunciation: el-eg-an-tiss-im-us
Meaning: most beautiful or elegant.

Meaning: Most elegant
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-gan-TISS-ee-muh

Latin Pronunciation: ell-eg-anz
Meaning: beautiful, elegant.

electrolyte

A soluble substance capable of conducting ions when dissolved.

Meaning: Possibly from the Greek word meaning song of mourning or lament
Latin Pronunciation: el-EE-jee-a

Meaning: Elegant habit
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-GAN-tew-lus

Meaning: Elegant habit
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-GAN-tew-lum

Meaning: Elegant habit
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-GAN-tew-luh

elements

Organisms typical of a certain region or habitat, but may occur outside of it, such as a group of prairie species found in the eastern part of the united States. See also: ecological factor, vicariation, ecological equivalence.

Latin Pronunciation: el-ef-fant-id-enz
Meaning: large-

Meaning: From the Greek eleios or heleios (marsh) and charis (grace)
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-OK-ar-iss

Meaning: Elephant foot (stem)
Latin Pronunciation: ell-uh-fan-TY-pee-deez

Meaning: Resin-bearing
Latin Pronunciation: el-em-IF-er-uh

Meaning: Elephant foot (stem)
Latin Pronunciation: ell-uh-fan-TY-peez

Meaning: Elephant's foot
Latin Pronunciation: el-eh-fun--TOE-pus

Meaning: From the Latin word for elephant
Latin Pronunciation: EL-eh-faz

Meaning: From the Greek eleutheros (free) and kokkos (berry)
Latin Pronunciation: el-ew-ther-oh-KOK-us

Meaning: Possibly from the Greek eleutheros (to liberate, or free from bondage)
Latin Pronunciation: el-yoo-ther-RY-nee

eligulate

Without strap organs.

Meaning: Of or from Elim, an oasis mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the modern-day middle East
Latin Pronunciation: ee-lim-EN-see

Meaning: Named for Henry Nicholson Ellacombe, early 20th century gardener at Bicton Rectory (now Avon)
Latin Pronunciation: el-la-KOMB-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Johanna Ellaphie Ward-Hilorst, 20th century South African botanical artist
Latin Pronunciation: el-la-FY-aye

Meaning: Named for Henry Nicholson Ellacombe, early 20th century gardener at Bicton Rectory (now Avon)
Latin Pronunciation: el-la-komb-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Named for Stephen Elliott, 19th century South Carolina (American) botanist
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-ot-ee-AH-na

Meaning: Named for Stephen Elliott, 19th century South Carolina (American) botanist
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-OT-tee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek elle (Helen of Troy) and anthos (flower)
Latin Pronunciation: el-lee-AN-thus

ellipsoidal

Widest at or about the middle; margins are symmetrically curved, being narrowed to relatively rounded ends.

Meaning: Named for Stephen Elliott, 19th century South Carolina (American) botanist
Latin Pronunciation: el-ee-OT-ee-eye

Meaning: Of or from Elim, an oasis mentioned in the Old Testament, located in the modern-day middle East
Latin Pronunciation: ee-lim-EN-sis

Meaning: Elliptic (taller/longer than wide) in outline, but solid
Latin Pronunciation: e-lip-soy-DAY-lis

elliptic

Narrow at the ends and broad near the center.

elliptical

Oblong with rounded ends.

Latin Pronunciation: el-lip-tik-us
Meaning: elliptical (oval, tapering towards ends).

Meaning: Elliptical, about twice as long as wide
Latin Pronunciation: ee-LIP-tih-kuh

Meaning: Elliptical, about twice as long as wide
Latin Pronunciation: ee-LIP-tih-kum

Meaning: Named for Captain Elliott, English collector of rare plants
Latin Pronunciation: el-lot-ee-AH-nuh

Meaning: Named for Adolph Daniel Edward Elmer, 20th century collector in California and Malaysia, the Philippines and New Guinea
Latin Pronunciation: EL-mer-uh

Meaning: Named for George Ellwanger, 19th century German-born American nurseryman
Latin Pronunciation: el-wan-ger-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Named for Adolph Daniel Edward Elmer, 20th century collector in California and Malaysia, the Philippines and New Guinea
Latin Pronunciation: EL-mer-ee

Meaning: Growing in marshes
Latin Pronunciation: ell-o-dees

Meaning: From the Greek helodes (marshy), referring to the habitat of this plant
Latin Pronunciation: el-OH-dee-uh

Meaning: Elongated
Latin Pronunciation: ee-long-GAH-tum

Latin Pronunciation: ee-lon-gay-tus
Meaning: lengthened, elongated.

eluvial layer

elongate

Much longer than wide.

Meaning: Elongated
Latin Pronunciation: ee-long-GAH-tuh

eluviation

The removal of material from a specified soil horizon by leaching, either in solution or colloidal suspension. See also: illuviation.

Meaning: Henry John Elwes, 19th century British plant collector, author and naturalist; the first recipient of the Victoria Medal of the Royal Horticultural Society
Latin Pronunciation: el-WEZ-ee-eye

Meaning: Resembles Elymus (genus name meaning wild rye or lime grass)
Latin Pronunciation: el-ih-MOY-deez

Meaning: Wild rye or lime grass
Latin Pronunciation: EL-ih-mus

Meaning: From the Greek elytron (sheath, covering)
Latin Pronunciation: el-i-TRIJ-ee-a

Meaning: From the Greek: elytron (cover) and anthera (anther), referring to the column wings overlapping the anthers
Latin Pronunciation: el-eye-THRAN-ther-uh

El Ni?o (alt. El Nino)

An irregularly occurring flow of unusually warm surface water along the western coast of South America that is accompanied by abnormally high rainfall in many usually arid areas of both North and South America.

El Ni?o (alt. El Nino)

An irregularly occurring flow of unusually warm surface water along the western coast of South America that is accompanied by abnormally high rainfall in many usually arid areas of both North and South America.

Meaning: With a notched margin
Latin Pronunciation: e-mar-jin-NAY-tuh

Meaning: With a notched margin
Latin Pronunciation: e-mar-jin-NAY-tum

emasculation

1. In plants, the removal of male flowers or anthers to prevent self-pollination, such as removing tassels from corn, Zea mays, for hybridization. 2. In animals, castration, the removal of testicles, as done with some bulls to turn them into steers to produce tender meat.

Latin Pronunciation: ee-mar-jin-nay-tus
Meaning: shallowly notched at tip (as of leaves), emarginate.

Meaning: From the Greek en (in) and bothrion (small pit); referring to the location of the anthers in small cavities within the calyx calyx
Latin Pronunciation: em-BOTH-ree-um

emarginate

Having a shallow notch at the extremity.

embracing

Clasping at the base.

embryoid

A mass of tissue that resembles an embryo.

embryogenesis

Formation and subsequent development of plumule, radical, and cotyledons in a plant.

embryo

The rudimentary plantlet within the seed.

embryo sac

A structure inside the ovule of a flowering plant in which pollination occurs, and in which an embryo begins to develop.

Meaning: Of or from Mt. Emei (or Omei), one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains of China
Latin Pronunciation: em-ee-eye-EN-see

embryotega

A callus near the hilum of certain seeds, which is detached during germination.

Meaning: Of or from Mt. Omei or Omeishan, also spelled Emei in China; the mountain's name means lofty brow
Latin Pronunciation: uh-may-EN-sis

emergence

Refers to outgrowths on the surface of an organ, such as warts, prickles, etc.

Meaning: Of or from Mt. Emei (or Omei), one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains of China
Latin Pronunciation: em-ee-eye-EN-sis

emersed

Raised above the water.

emergent (syn. emersed)

1. Half uncovered. 2. In mosses, of the capsule, when the perichaetial leaves reach but do not overtop it. 3. An aquatic plant with its lower part submerged and its upper part extending above water.

emergent aquatic plants

Plants rooted in shallow water bottoms with the upper leaves and stems above the water surface.

Meaning: From the Latin ex- (out of) and Rumex (genus name for docks and sorrel), referring to the segregation from that genus
Latin Pronunciation: EE-meks

Latin Pronunciation: em-met-ik-us
Meaning: emetic.

emetics

Herbal medicines that can induce vomiting.

emigrant

One who moves from one area, emigrates, to live in another. See also: immigrant.

emigration

The process of leaving a locality more or less permanently.

Latin Pronunciation: em-in-enz
Meaning: prominent.

Meaning: From the Greek emmenes (lasting) and pteryx (wing); referring to the wing-shaped mature calyx
Latin Pronunciation: em-men-OP-ter-iss

Meaning: Prominent, eminent
Latin Pronunciation: EM-in-ens

emollients

Herbal medicines that can soften skin.

Meaning: Named for William Hemsley Emory, 19th century Army officer and Director of the Mexican Boundary Survey
Latin Pronunciation: EM-or-ee

Meaning: Having leaves like Empetrum (Crowberry)
Latin Pronunciation: em-pet-rih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Having leaves like Empetrum (Crowberry)
Latin Pronunciation: em-pet-rih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having leaves like Empetrum (Crowberry)
Latin Pronunciation: em-pet-rih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek word meaning tanglefoot, referring to the habit of the plant
Latin Pronunciation: em-POH-dis-muh

enantiostylous

Refers to flowers whose stamens bend to the left or right, with the styles in the opposite direction.

Meaning: Resembles Encelia, genus named for Christoph Entzelt (Latinized to Encelius), 16th century Lutheran clergyman
Latin Pronunciation: en-see-lee-OY-deez

Meaning: Resembles Encelia, genus named for Christoph Entzelt (Latinized to Encelius), 16th century Lutheran clergyman
Latin Pronunciation: en-see-lee-OP-sis

enation

An outgrowth on the surface of an organ.

Meaning: Resembles Encephalartos (genus name meaning bread in the head)
Latin Pronunciation: en-sef-uh-lar-TOY-deez
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:en-kef-uh-lar-TOY-deez

Meaning: From the Greek encepahlos (brain, head) and karpos (fruit), referring to the shape of the fruit
Latin Pronunciation: en-sef-uh-loh-KAR-pus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:en-kef-uh-loh-KAR-pus

Meaning: From the Greek enkyklein, meaning to encircle or surround
Latin Pronunciation: en-SIK-lee-uh

Meaning: from the Greek enchlyos (fleshy, succulent) and chlaena (cloak) referring to the perianth
Latin Pronunciation: en-ky-LAY-en-uh

encinal

Refers to a grove or forest of evergreen oaks.

enclosure

An area fenced or otherwise encircled to pen in animals, e.g., sheep. An exclosure is similarly treated to shut out other species, like coyotes, so the same area can be both an enclosure and an exclosure.

endemic

Confined to a small area; limited in geographic distribution.

endangered plant

A species adjudged to be threatened with extermination.

Meaning: Of or from Endau, Malaysia
Latin Pronunciation: en-dow-EN-sus

encystment

A state of inactivity of an organism surrounded by a protective case; metabolism is lowered while resistance is raised to unfavorable environmental conditions. See also: cyst.

endemism

The occurrence of highly adapted plants or animals in an area. See also: endemic.

Meaning: Diminutive form of the Greek entubon (January), possibly referring to the month the plant is grown
Latin Pronunciation: en-DIV-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:en-DEE-vee-uh

Meaning: Named for Stephan Ladislaus Endlicher, 19th century Austrian botanist who formulated a major system of plant classification
Latin Pronunciation: end-lee-KER-ee

Meaning: Named for Stephan Ladislaus Endlicher, 19th century Austrian botanist who formulated a major system of plant classification
Latin Pronunciation: end-lih-KER-ee-a

Meaning: Named for Stephan Ladislaus Endlicher, 19th century Austrian botanist who formulated a major system of plant classification
Latin Pronunciation: end-lih-ker-ee-AH-na

Meaning: Named for Stephan Ladislaus Endlicher, 19th century Austrian botanist who formulated a major system of plant classification
Latin Pronunciation: end-lih-ker-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Named for Dr. R. Endlich, who collected the species
Latin Pronunciation: end-lik-ee-AH-na

Meaning: Named for Stephan Ladislaus Endlicher, 19th century Austrian botanist who formulated a major system of plant classification
Latin Pronunciation: end-lih-ker-ee-AH-nus

endochory (syn. endozoochory)

Dispersal of an organism, particularly a seed, by an animal which carries it from one place to another, often in its digestive tract.

endodermis

The thin sheath of cells bounding the stele and separating it from the cortex.

endogenous

Growing throughout the substance of the stem, instead of by superficial layers.

endocarp

The inner layer of a pericarp.

endoglossum

A crosswise projection from the back wall of a carpel to make it almost completely septate.

endophytic (n. endophyte)

1. Growing within the tissue of a plant; a plant that grows within another plant, like a fungus endoparasite. 2. A plant that can penetrate a rock, like a lichen.

endoplasma (syn. entoplasm, syn. endosarc)

The inner granular layer of protoplasm in ovum development.

endospore

An asexual reproductive body found mostly in bacteria.

endosperm

The nutritive tissue in a seed of a flowering plant that surrounds the embryo. See also: perisperm.

endostome

The inner row of teeth of a peristome.

endothecium

The inner layers of cells of the capsule.

endoparasite (alt. endobiophyta)

The existence of a parasite within an organism, like a tapeworm.

endozoochore

A propagule like a seed that is dispersed by being carried inside an animal's body, such as a cherry seed, Prunus, being swallowed by a bird and dropped in feces.

Meaning: From the Greek endymion, a mythological figure beloved by Diana
Latin Pronunciation: en-DIM-ee-on

Meaning: Named for Philipp Anton Christoph Endress, 19th century plant collector
Latin Pronunciation: en-DRESS-ee-eye

endotrophic

Refers to fungi that grow within roots. See also: ectotrophic, mycorrhiza.

energy transformers

Plants and animals that process and pass on energy, originally transformed from sunlight by plants, from one organism to the next in a food chain. See also: energy flow.

energy flow

The intake, conversion and passage of energy through an organism or ecosystem.

end bud

A bud, or sometimes several, located at the end of the twig.

Meaning: Named for George Engelmann, 19th century German-born physician and botanist who worked in St. Louis (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: en-gel-MAH-nee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:en-gel-MAN-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for George Engelmann, 19th century German-born physician and botanist who worked in St. Louis (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: en-gel-MAH-nee-eye
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:en-gel-MAN-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Heinrich Gustav Adolph Engler, 20th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: ENG-ler-ee

Meaning: Named for Heinrich Gustav Adolph Engler, 20th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: eng-ler-ee-AY-nus

Meaning: Named for Heinrich Gustav Adolph Engler, 20th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: eng-ler-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Named for Heinrich Gustav Adolph Engler, 20th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: eng-ler-ee-AY-num

Meaning: Having nine spines
Latin Pronunciation: en-nee-uh-KAN-thus

Meaning: From the Greek ennea (nine) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: en-nee-a-FIL-a

Latin Pronunciation: en-nee-al-fill-us
Meaning: nine-leaved.

Meaning: From the Greek ennea (nine) and pogon (beard), referring to the nine lobes of the lemmas
Latin Pronunciation: en-nee-uh-POH-gon

Meaning: From the Greek meaning armed, referring to the spines
Latin Pronunciation: en-OH-pl-ah

Meaning: From the Greek ennea (nine) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: en-nee-a-FIL-um

enphytotic

Occurring regularly among the plants of a region, such as an endemic fungus. See also: epiphytotic.

Meaning: Sword-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: en-SA-tuh

Meaning: Sword-bearing
Latin Pronunciation: en-SIF-er-uh

Meaning: A transcription of the plant's vernacular name
Latin Pronunciation: en-SET-ee

Meaning: Sword-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: en-SA-tum

Latin Pronunciation: en-say-tus
Meaning: sword-like.

Meaning: Sword-shaped leaves
Latin Pronunciation: en-see-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Sword-shaped leaves
Latin Pronunciation: en-see-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Sword- (or lance-) shaped
Latin Pronunciation: en-see-FORM-ee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:en-see-FORM-ay

Latin Pronunciation: en-sif-foh-lee-us
Meaning: sword- leaved.

Latin Pronunciation: en-sif-form-iss
Meaning: sword- shaped.

ensiform

Shaped like a sword.

Meaning: Within lobes
Latin Pronunciation: en-ter-oh-LOW-bee-um

Meaning: From the Greek enteron (intestines) and -phora (bearing)
Latin Pronunciation: en-ter-OH-for-uh

Meaning: A Malabar name used by van Rheede for the genus of giant seeds that float across the Atlantic Ocean to wash up on the shores of northwest Europe
Latin Pronunciation: en-TAH-duh

Meaning: From the Greek enteron (intestine) and pogon (a beard), possibly in reference to bearded callus
Latin Pronunciation: en-ter-oh-POH-gon

entire

Without toothing or division.

entomophilous

Pollinated by insects.

entropy

The degradation of energy, a measure of the degree of disorder of a system.

Latin Pronunciation: en-toh-mof-il-us
Meaning: insect loving.

entophagous

Animals that feed inside of roots, dead leaves, etc. See also: ectophagous.

environmental impact

A statement regarding new construction and the consequences it will have on the ecology of the area.

environmental heterogeneity

The physical or temporal patchiness of the environment, created by disturbances like fire and storms, microclimates, soils, history, and random population variation.

environment

The sum total of all the external conditions which surround organisms. See also: habitat, site.

environmental clock

The influence of surroundings in initiating activities of organisms or certain processes, such as longer days initiating egg laying in birds.

environmental resistance

The limiting influences of environmental factors upon the increase in numbers of individuals in a community. See also: biotic potential, reproductive potential.

enzyme

Any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and which catalyze various biochemical reactions.

Eocene

The second geological epoch in the Cenozoic era--the Tertiary period, that opened about 58 million years ago and lasted for 19 million years.

envelope (adj. enveloping)

The surrounding part.

epeirogenesis (alt. epeirogeny, alt. epirogeny)

The deforming of the earth's crust, producing continents, ocean basins, and great plateaus. See also: diastrophism.

epappose

With no pappus.

epetiolate

With no petals.

epharmony

The changes of processes or shape of structures by which an organism adapts to an altered environment. See also: adaptation, epharmone, ecad.

epharmone

An organism which adapted to changes in its environment. See also: ecad, epharmony.

ephemeral (syn. transient)

1. Lasting one day, or more broadly, for a short time. 2. An herbaceous, perennial plant which dies to the ground after flowering and setting seed in spring or early summer.

Meaning: Over or upon
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ih

Meaning: Short-lived
Latin Pronunciation: eh-FEM-er-um

epibiotic

An endemic surviving from a former habitat; a relic.

Meaning: An intergeneric hybrid of Epidendrum (from the Greek epi, upon; and dendron, tree) and Cattleya (named for William Cattley)
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ee-KAT-lee-yuh

epibenthic

Living on the surface of bottom sediments in a water body.

Meaning: Short-lived
Latin Pronunciation: eh-FEM-er-uh

epicarp

The outer layer of the pericarp or matured ovary.

epicalyx

A whorl of bracts outside the calyx.

epichil (alt. epichile, alt. epichilium)

The terminal part of the lip in some orchids, distinctly different from the form of the basal part.

epicole (alt. epibiont)

An organism which attaches itself to a host without either benefit or harm to the host, such as lichens on the bark of trees. See also: commensalism, epiphyte, parasite.

epidemic

The pervasive spread of organisms which are parasitic, predatory, or damaging.

epicotyl

The stem of a seedling between the cotyledons and the first true leaves.

epicortical

Outside the bark.

epicormic

Describes new growth ( buds, shoots, or flowers) borne on the old wood of trees.

epidermis

The outermost layer of cells covering the plant.

epigeal

Of or relating to the emergence of cotyledons above the surface of the ground. See also: hypogeal.

epigynous

Growing on the summit of the ovary, or apparently so.

Meaning: From the Greek epi (upon) and geneion (chin), referring to the position of the petals and sepals
Latin Pronunciation: eh-pih-JEE-nee-um

Meaning: From the Greek epi (over) and gyne (ovary)
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ih-GY-na

Meaning: From the Greek epi (over) and gyne (ovary)
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ih-GY-num

Meaning: Alternate spelling of epilobiifolia; having leaves like Epilobium
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ee-lo-bee-FOH-lee-uh

epilia

A population of air plants, epiphytes. See also: epicole.

epilithic

Growing on rocks.

epilimnion

The upper layer of a lake which is disturbed by winds, lying above the thermocline. See also: hypolimnion.

Meaning: With leaves like willow-herb (Epilobium); sometimes spelled epilobifolia
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ee-lo-bee-ih-FOH-lee-ah

epinasty (adj. epinastic)

In plant physiology, the state in which more vigorous growth occurs in the upper surface of an organ, such as in an unfolding leaf, causing a downward curvature. See also: hyponasty.

epiorganism (alt. supraorganism)

A natural group made up of similar individuals, like a hive of bees or a stand of maples, Acer. See also: community, population.

epipetalous

Borne on or attached to the petals.

Meaning: From Greek epipaktis or epipegnuo, the name adopted for this genus (originally called hellebore); refers to a milk-curdling property claimed for some species
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ih-PAK-tiss
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ep-ip-ak-tis

epipetric

Growing on rock.

epiphragm

A membrane covering the mouth of the deoperculate capsule.

Meaning: Resembling the Epiphyllum genus
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ih-fy-LOP-sis
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ep-ih-fill-OP-sis

epiphyllous

Growing on a leaf, usually through vegetative reproduction.

epiphyte (adj. epiphytic, syn. aerophyte)

A plant growing attached to another plant, but not parasitic; an air plant.

Meaning: tree-perching (non-parasitic)

epiphytotic

Common, even epidemic, among plants in general, as some fungus diseases like mildew. See also: enphytotic.

epiphyton

A collection of organisms scattered over surfaces submerged in water, that may later become mechanically associated. See also: lasion, periphyton.

epiphyll

An organism that grows on leaves. See also: epiphyte.

Meaning: Of bishops (resembling a bishop's mitre)
Latin Pronunciation: e-pis-koh-PAY-lee

Meaning: Upon the tree stump
Latin Pronunciation: ep-ih-PREM-num

epistasis

Suppression of the effect of a gene by another, nonallelic gene.

episepalous

Borne on or attached to the sepals.

Meaning: Of bishops (resembling a bishop's mitre)
Latin Pronunciation: e-pis-koh-PAY-lis

Meaning: From the Greek epistephes (crowned), referring to the corona at the apex of the ovary
Latin Pronunciation: eh-pih-STEE-fee-um

epispastics

Herbal medicines which can cause blisters.

epithalassa

The upper layer of water above the thermocline, where stratification occurs because of water temperature in the ocean.

epithet (adj. epithetic)

The part of a scientific name designating a species or lower division of a genus. For example, inCyranthus mackenii var.cooperi,mackenii is the species epithet andcooperi is the variety epithet.

Meaning: Resembles epithymum (from the Greek epi, upon; and thymus, unnatural growth)
Latin Pronunciation: ee-pith-ih-MOY-deez

epithelium

Cellular tissue which covers a surface or lines a tube to assist secretion production and help assimilate nutrients.

epizoan

An epiphyte animal.

Meaning: From the Greek epi (upon) and thymus (an unnatural growth), referring to the parasitic nature of this plant
Latin Pronunciation: ee-PITH-ih-mum

epsom salts

Bitter crystalline hydrated magnesium sulfate, sometimes used as a soil amendment.

Meaning: Pertaining to horses or horsemen
Latin Pronunciation: e-KWES-tree

equal (alt. equalling)

Of the same length, as in ' sepals equal petals.' It means that two plants are the same length--not that they are indistinguishable, as when two plants are so inseparable they are called tepals.

Latin Pronunciation: ek-kwess-triss
Meaning: pertaining to horses.

equidistant

The same measurement apart.

epruinose

Lacking bloom on the surface.

Latin Pronunciation: ek-kwye-nus
Meaning: of horses.

Meaning: Foliage like a horse tail, Equisetum
Latin Pronunciation: ek-wih-set-ih-FOL-ee-uh

equilateral

Equal on both sides of an axis.

Meaning: Foliage like a horse tail, Equisetum
Latin Pronunciation: ek-wih-set-ih-FOL-ee-um

Meaning: Foliage like a horse tail, Equisetum
Latin Pronunciation: ek-wih-set-ih-FOL-ee-us

Meaning: Horse tail form
Latin Pronunciation: eck-kwiss-ee-tih-FOR-mee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:eck-kwiss-ee-tih-FOR-may

equitant

Astride; refers to conduplicate leaves which enfold each other in two ranks, alternating one above the other on opposite sides of the stem, as occurs on an iris.

Meaning: Horse tail form
Latin Pronunciation: eck-kwiss-ee-tih-FOR-mis

eradicate (n. eradication, syn. exterminate)

To remove entirely; to pull up by the roots.

Meaning: From the Latin equus (horse) and saeta (bristle)
Latin Pronunciation: ek-wis-SEE-tum

Meaning: To ride horseback
Latin Pronunciation: EK-wih-tans

erect

Vertical or upright.

Meaning: Erect, upright
Latin Pronunciation: ee-RECK-tuh

erecto-patent

Midway between erect and patent.

Latin Pronunciation: ee-rek-tus
Meaning: upright, erect.

Meaning: Erect, upright
Latin Pronunciation: ee-RECK-tum

Meaning: From the Greek eremi (lonely, solitary) and malche (green or leaf), referring to its desert habitat
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-AL-kee

Meaning: From the Latin erectos (upright) and the Greek cylindro (cylinder)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ek-toh-sil-IN-drih-kuh

eremean

Belonging to regions of low, irregular rainfall.

Meaning: From the Greek eremos (lonely, solitary), referring to its desert habitat
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-OH-bee-a

Meaning: From the Greek eremos (lonely, solitary), referring to its desert habitat
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-OH-bee-us

Meaning: From the desert
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-IT-ih-kus

Meaning: From the Greek eremos (lonely, solitary), referring to its desert habitat
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-OH-bee-um

Meaning: From the Greek eremia (desert) and citrus
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-oh-SIT-rus

Meaning: Desert lover, lover of lonely places
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-oh-FY-lus

Meaning: From the Greek eremo (lonely or solitary) and krinon (lily)
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-oh-KREE-num

Meaning: Desert lover, lover of lonely places
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-oh-FY-luh

Meaning: Desert lover, lover of lonely places
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-oh-FY-lum

Meaning: Desert (dry) spathe
Latin Pronunciation: er-em-oh-SPAY-tha

ergonomics

Applied science which designs and arranges things to interact efficiently and safely with humans.

Meaning: Prefix meaning woolly
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee

Meaning: Wool flower
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-AN-thum

Meaning: Wool flower
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-AN-thuh

erianthous

Having woolly flowers.

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-ee-anth-us
Meaning: woolly- flowered.

Meaning: From the Greek erion (wool) and astrum (star), referring to plant's wolly, star-like flowers
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-ASS-trum

Meaning: Having leaves like Erica (Latin name for Heath genus)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ik-ih-FOH-lee-uh

ericaceous

Refers to plants of the family Ericaceae that require an acid soil, generally with a pH of 6 or less.

Meaning: The Erica (heather) family
Latin Pronunciation: er-ek-AY-see-ay

ericoid

Like a heath.

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-ik-koy-deez
Meaning: Heath-like, Erica-like.

Meaning: Having leaves like Erica (Latin name for Heath genus)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ik-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having leaves like Erica (Latin name for Heath genus)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ik-ih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Like a hedgehog
Latin Pronunciation: er-in-uh-SEE-uh

erinous

Prickly, with sharp points.

Meaning: Like a hedgehog
Latin Pronunciation: er-in-uh-SEE-us

Meaning: Prefix meaning woolly
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh

Meaning: Like a hedgehog
Latin Pronunciation: er-in-uh-SEE-um

Meaning: Woolly fruit
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-KAR-puh

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-ee-oh-karp-us
Meaning: woolly- fruited.

Meaning: Woolly fruit
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-KAR-pum

Meaning: Wool- or cotton- headed
Latin Pronunciation: eh-ree-oh-SEF-ha-lum

Latin Pronunciation: ehr - ee - oh - sef - al - us
Meaning: woolly-headed.

Meaning: Wool- or cotton- headed
Latin Pronunciation: eh-ree-oh-SEF-ha-la

Meaning: From the Greek erion (wool) and kaulos (plant stem)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-KAW-lon

Meaning: From the Greek erion (woolly) and cereus (cactus)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-KER-ee-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:er-ee-oh-SER-ee-us

Meaning: From the Greek erion (wool) and cheilos (lip), referring to the hairy labellum
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-KY-lus

Meaning: From the Greek erion (wool) and chloa (grass), referring to the hairy pedicels
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-KLOH-uh

Meaning: From the Greek erios (woolly) and klados (branch)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-KLAD-us

Meaning: From the Greek erios (woolly) and klados (branch)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-KLAD-uh

Meaning: Wolly foot
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-OH-pa

Meaning: Wooly-foot
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-OH-pus

Meaning: Bearing wool
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-OH-for-uh

Meaning: Woolly leaf
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-FIL-uh

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-ee-off-or-us
Meaning: woolly.

Meaning: Woolly leaf
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-FIL-us

Meaning: Wolly foot
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-OH-pum

Meaning: Resembles Eria (from the Greek erion, wool; referring to the wolly appearance of the flowers)
Latin Pronunciation: ear-ee-OP-sis

Meaning: From the Greek erion (wool) and sperma (seed)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-SPER-mum

Meaning: Woolly spathe
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-SPAY-thu
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:er-ee-oh-SPATH-uh

Meaning: From the Greek erion (wool) and sperma (seed)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-SPER-muh

Meaning: Has woolly (flower) spikes
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-STAK-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:er-ee-oh-STAY-kee-uh

Meaning: Has woolly (flower) spikes
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-STAK-ee-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:er-ee-oh-STAY-kee-um

Meaning: From the Greek erion (wool) and sperma (seed)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-SPER-mus

Meaning: Has woolly (flower) spikes
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-STAK-ee-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:er-ee-oh-STAY-kee-us

Meaning: From the Greek erion (wolly) and sykon (fig, fruit)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-oh-SY-kee

Meaning: Wolly foot
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-OH-pus

Meaning: From the Greek erodios, a heron - referring to the long beak on the fruit
Latin Pronunciation: er-OH-dee-um

erose

Irregularly cut away as if gnawed.

erosion (v. erode)

Slow destruction of soil or rock by the action of water, wind, or ice.

Latin Pronunciation: ee-roh-sus
Meaning: jagged.

Meaning: Jagged
Latin Pronunciation: e-ROH-sum

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-rat-ik-us
Meaning: unusual.

Meaning: Jagged
Latin Pronunciation: e-ROH-suh

errhines

Herbal medicines applied in the nose to promote discharge of mucus.

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-rew-bess-senz
Meaning: blushing.

Meaning: From the Latin erumpo (bursting forth, breaking forth, erupting)
Latin Pronunciation: ee-RUM-penz

Meaning: Resembles Eruca (ancient name for leafy vegetable, described by Pliny)
Latin Pronunciation: er-roo-KOY-deez

erumpent

Appearing to be ready to break through.

Meaning: From the Greek erymnos (fenced) and cheilos (lip), referring to the erect, fence-like border of the lip
Latin Pronunciation: er-rym-no-KY-la

Meaning: Resembles Eruca (ancient name for leafy vegetable, described by Pliny)
Latin Pronunciation: er-roo-KAS-trum

Meaning: Red spines
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-ra-KAN-tha

Meaning: From the Greek eryomai, to help, save - referring to the medicinal qualities of some species
Latin Pronunciation: er-RIS-ih-mum

Meaning: Red spines
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-ra-KAN-thum

Meaning: Red spines
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-ra-KAN-thus

Meaning: From the Greek erythros (red)
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-RAY-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:er-ree-THREE-um

Meaning: From the Greek erythros (red)
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-RAY-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:er-ree-THREE-uh

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-ith-roh-karp-us
Meaning: red-fruited.

Meaning: From the Greek erythros (red)
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-RAY-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:er-ree-THREE-us

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-ith-roh-sef-al-us
Meaning: red-headed.

Meaning: Red flower
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-RAN-tha

Meaning: From the Latin erythros (red), the reference is obscure
Latin Pronunciation: er-ry-THRO-deez

Meaning: From the Greek erythro (red) and chlamys (mantle or cloak)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ith-roh-KLAM-is

Meaning: From the Greek erythro (red) and corys (helmet)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ith-roh-KOR-rys

Meaning: Red pappus
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-roh-PAP-uh

Meaning: Red-leaved
Latin Pronunciation: er-ith-roh-FIL-um

Meaning: Red-leaved
Latin Pronunciation: er-ith-roh-FIL-uh

Meaning: Red-leaved
Latin Pronunciation: er-ith-roh-FIL-us

Meaning: From the Greek erythros (red) and opsis (resembles)
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-ROP-sis

Meaning: Red stem
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-THROW-pod-um

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-ith-rop-od-us
Meaning: red- footed or -stalked.

Meaning: Red stem
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-THROW-pod-uh

Meaning: Red sepals
Latin Pronunciation: er-ee-throw-SEP-uh-luh

Latin Pronunciation: ehr-ith-rop-ter-us
Meaning: red- winged.

Meaning: Red sori (heap)
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-roh-SOR-uh

Meaning: Red sori (heap)
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-roh-SOR-us

Meaning: Red sori (heap)
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-roh-SOR-um

Meaning: Red-crowned
Latin Pronunciation: er-rith-ro-STEM-a

Meaning: From the Greek erythro (red) stiktos (spotted)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ith-roh-STIK-tus

Meaning: From the Greek erythro (red) stiktos (spotted)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ith-roh-STIK-ta

Meaning: Having red wood
Latin Pronunciation: er-uh-THROKS-uh-lum

Meaning: From the Greek erythro (red) stiktos (spotted)
Latin Pronunciation: er-ith-roh-STIK-tum

Meaning: Named for Dr. Johann Friedrich Gustav von Eschscholtz, 19th century Estonian surgeon and botanist
Latin Pronunciation: es-SHOLT-zee-ah-nuh

escarpment (alt. scarp)

A long inland cliff or steep slope formed by erosion, often by waves, or sometimes by a fault.

escape

An exotic plant that has spread from cultivation and grows successfully in the wild.

Meaning: Named for Dr. Johann Friedrich Gustav von Eschscholtz, 19th century Estonian surgeon and botanist
Latin Pronunciation: es-SHOLT-zee-eye

Meaning: Named for Dr. Johann Friedrich Gustav von Eschscholtz, 19th century Estonian surgeon and botanist
Latin Pronunciation: es-SHOLT-zee-ah-num

Meaning: Edible
Latin Pronunciation: es-kew-LEN-tuh

Meaning: Named for Dr. Johann Friedrich Gustav von Eschscholtz, 19th century Estonian surgeon and botanist
Latin Pronunciation: es-SHOLT-zee-ah-nus

esorediate

Lacking soredia.

Meaning: Edible
Latin Pronunciation: es-kew-LEN-tum

Meaning: Named for Nicolas E. Esposto, a botanist from Lima (Peru)
Latin Pronunciation: es-POS-toh-uh

Latin Pronunciation: es-kew-lent-us
Meaning: edible.

espalier

A plant trained to grow flat against a wall or framework. To train a tree or shrub with its branches growing in a two-dimensional plane, flat against a building or fence.

essential oil

Any volatile plant oil used in perfume or flavorings.

estipulate (alt. exstipulate)

With no bract at the base of the petiole.

Meaning: Named for Eddie Esteves Pereira, 20th century Brazilian researcher and cactus collector
Latin Pronunciation: es-teh-VEZ-ee-eye

aestival (alt. estival)

Appearing during the summer season. See also: aspection.

Meaning: Named for Pedro Jaime Esteve, 16th century Spanish physician and botanist
Latin Pronunciation: es-STEV-ee-eye

estivation

Stagnating or otherwise nonfunctional during the summer months. See also: hibernation.

Meaning: Without stripes
Latin Pronunciation: e-stry-AH-ta

Meaning: Named for Elsie Elizabeth Esterhuysen, South African botanist born in 1912
Latin Pronunciation: ess-ter-hew-SEN-ee-ay

Meaning: Without stripes
Latin Pronunciation: e-stry-AH-tum

Latin Pronunciation: es - trye - ay - tus
Meaning: without stripes.

Meaning: Latinized form of Celtic name for sharp, referring to the acrid juice
Latin Pronunciation: ESS-uh-luh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ESS-yoo-luh

estrogenic

Herbal medicine that stimulates female hormone production or replaces it with plant hormones.

ethnobotany

The plant lore and agricultural customs of a people; the systematic study of such lore.

ethnopharmacology

The study and practice of medicines used by a people.

etiolate (n. etiolation)

To alter the natural development of a plant by excluding sunlight, often resulting in pale or bleached foliage. Etiolation is one method of layering for propagation; the shaded parts turn white or cream and develop no leaves.

ethylene

A colorless flammable hydrocarbon gas occurring in plants, acting as growth regulator and fruit ripener.

Meaning: Of or from Rome, or the surrounding Tuscan region of Italy
Latin Pronunciation: ee-TRUSS-ka

Meaning: Of or from Rome, or the surrounding Tuscan region of Italy
Latin Pronunciation: ee-TRUSS-kum

Meaning: Without bumps, tubercles
Latin Pronunciation: ee-tew-ber-kew-LAY-tus

Meaning: Without bumps, tubercles
Latin Pronunciation: ee-tew-ber-kew-LAY-tuh

Meaning: Of or from Rome, or the surrounding Tuscan region of Italy
Latin Pronunciation: ee-TRUSS-kus

Meaning: From the Greek euanthes (good flowers; blooming), referring to the showy flowers
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-AN-thee

Latin Pronunciation: ee-tew-ber-roh-sus
Meaning: without tubers.

Meaning: Prefix meaning good, well
Latin Pronunciation: yoo

Meaning: Resembling Eucalyptus (genus name from the Greek eu- good; and kaluptos, covered)
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-kuh-lip-TOY-deez

Meaning: Having leaves like Eucalyptus
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-kuh-lip-tih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Having leaves like Eucalyptus
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-kuh-lip-tih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: From the Greek eu (good ) and kephale (head)
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-SEF-a-lus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:yoo-KEF-a-lus

eucamptodromous

Describes leaves having pinnate venation in which the secondary veins do not terminate at the margins but which gradually diminish inside the margin, connected to the superadjacent secondary veins by a series of cross-veins without forming prominent marginal loops. See also: acrodromous, brochidodromous, semicraspedodromous.

Meaning: From the Greek eu (good) and chiton (tunic or covering)
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-KY-ton

Meaning: Good or beautiful gum
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-KOM-ee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek eu (good) and knide (stinging nettle)
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-NY-dee

Meaning: Light green
Latin Pronunciation: YOO-klor-us

Meaning: Elegant or decorative
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-KOZ-ma

Meaning: Elegant or decorative
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-KOZ-mus

Meaning: Elegant or decorative
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-KOZ-mum

Meaning: From the Greek eu (good) and krypto (hidden)
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-KRIP-ta

Meaning: Named after the butterflyEueides lineata
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-ay-dih-PAB-yuh-lum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:yoo-eye-de-PAB-yuh-lum

Meaning: Named for Eug?ne Marais, early 20th century South African naturalist, author and poet
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-jeen-mar-AY-see-eye

eukaryote

An organism composed of one or more cells containing visibly evident nuclei and organelles, including all organisms except viruses, bacteria, and cyanobacteria. See also: prokaryote.

Meaning: Resembling Eugenia, genus name in honor of Prince Eugene of Savoy, 18th century Austrian general
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-jee-nee-OY-deez

Euglenophyta

A taxonomic division containing euglenoids and Euglena. All are single- celled and found mostly in fresh water. They can contract the vacuole and have a single flagellum.

Meaning: Good or beautiful plume
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-LOH-fee-uh

Meaning: Diminutive of Eulophia (from the Greek eu- good, and lophos, crest)
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-loh-fy-EL-uh

Meaning: Like Eulophia (genus name meaning good or beautiful plume)
Latin Pronunciation: yew-loh-FID-ee-um

Meaning: Good form
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-MOR-fuh

Meaning: Good form
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-MOR-fus

Meaning: From the Greek name Mithridates Eupator, King of Pontus about 115 BC who supposedly discovered an antidote to a poison found in one of the species
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-puh-TOR-ee-uh

Meaning: Eupatorium (genus name honoring Eupator, King of Pontus) and adelphus (brother), referring to the plants' close relationship
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-puh-tor-ee-uh-DEL-fus

Meaning: Good form
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-MOR-fum

Meaning: Resembles Euphorbia, genus named for Euphorbus, Greek physician to Juba II, King of Mauretania
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-for-bee-OY-deez

Meaning: The Euphorbia family, named for Euphorbus, Greek physician to Juba II, King of Mauretania
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-for-bee-AY-see-ay

Meaning: From the Greek goddess Euphrosyne, one of the Three Fates, whose name means gladness or to delight
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-FRAY-zee-uh

Meaning: Of or from Europe
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-ROH-pay-uh

Meaning: Of or from Europe (usually written as europaea)
Latin Pronunciation: yoor-ROH-puh

Meaning: Of or from Europe
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-ROH-pay-um

Latin Pronunciation: yew-roh-pee-us
Meaning: European.

Meaning: Named for Eurybia, daughter of Pontus and Gaea, and a sea goddess in Greek mythology
Latin Pronunciation: yoor-RIB-ee-uh

Meaning: Derivation is uncertain, possibly from the Greek eurys (large) and ops (eye), referring to the large flowers
Latin Pronunciation: yoor-RY-ops

Meaning: From the Greek eurys (broad) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: yoor-ee-FIL-um

eusporangiate

Refers to ferns having sporangia with walls thicker than one cell. See also: leptosporangiate.

Meaning: From the Greek eurys (broad) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: yoor-ee-FIL-us

Meaning: From the Greek eurys (broad) and pleura (ribs, side)
Latin Pronunciation: yoor-ee-PLOOR-ee-um

Meaning: From the Greek eurys (broad) and phyllon (leaf)
Latin Pronunciation: yoor-ee-FIL-a

eusporangium

A thick-walled sporangium originating from several epidermal cells.

Meaning: Named for one of the nine Muses of Greek mythology, the Muse of Music
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-TER-pee

Meaning: From the Greek: Eustrephus (well twisted) referring to its climbing habit
Latin Pronunciation: YOO-stref-us

Meaning: From the Greek eu (good) and stachys (spike-like)
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-STAK-iss
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:yoo-STAY-kiss

Meaning: From the Greek meaning "well-crowded", referring to the clustered flowers
Latin Pronunciation: yoo-THAY-mee-uh

eutrophic

Rich in dissolved nutrients, photosynthetically productive and often deficient in oxygen during warm weather.

evanescent

Disappearing at maturity.

Meaning: From the Latin evectus (carried, moved forward)
Latin Pronunciation: e-VEK-ta

even-pinnate

A pinnately- compound leaf lacking a terminal leaflet.

Meaning: Named for Thomas Evans, early 19th century English botanist, who collected plants in Malay
Latin Pronunciation: ev-vanz-zee-AH-nuh

Meaning: From the Latin evectus (carried, moved forward)
Latin Pronunciation: e-VEK-tum

Meaning: Of or from Evergeme (Belgium)
Latin Pronunciation: ev-er-gem-ee-EN-sis

everlastings

Plants with flowers which hold their color and shape when dried.

evergreen

Retaining foliage year-round.

evolute

Opened, unfolded.

evolution

Organic evolution is any genetic difference in organisms from generation to generation.

Meaning: Named for Ernst Ewald, 21st German century collector of epiphytic cacti
Latin Pronunciation: ee-wald-ee-AH-na

Meaning: Latinized form of exacon, the Gallic name for centaurium
Latin Pronunciation: EKS-uh-kum

exalbuminous

Without albumen.

Meaning: named for Joseph Philipp Gustav Ewers, 19th century German who promoted Ledebour's botanical exploration in Siberia; also a noted student of Altai flora
Latin Pronunciation: ev-ERZ-ee-eye

Meaning: Very tall
Latin Pronunciation: eks-all-TAY-tum

exalate

Lacking an ala.

Meaning: Very tall
Latin Pronunciation: eks-all-TAY-tuh

exappendiculate

With no appendages.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-al-tay-tus
Meaning: very tall.

exarate

With grooves.

Meaning: Hollowed out
Latin Pronunciation: ek-ska-VAY-tuh

exarillate

Without an aril.

excavate

Hollowed out in a curve.

exceed (alt. exceeding)

Refers to parts being compared in size where one is longer than the other.

Meaning: Hollowed out
Latin Pronunciation: ek-ska-VAY-tum

Meaning: Tall
Latin Pronunciation: ek-SEL-suh

Latin Pronunciation: ex-kay-vay-tus
Meaning: hollowed.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-sel-lenz
Meaning: excelling, out standing.

exceed (alt. exceeding)

Refers to parts being compared in size where one is longer than the other.

Meaning: Noble, exalted
Latin Pronunciation: eks-SEL-see-or

Meaning: Tall
Latin Pronunciation: ek-SEL-sum

Meaning: Noble, exalted
Latin Pronunciation: eks-SEL-see-us

Latin Pronunciation: ex-se/-sus
Meaning: tall.

Meaning: Cut away
Latin Pronunciation: eks-SIZE-um

Meaning: From the Latin ex-caeco (to blind, make blind); referring to the
Latin Pronunciation: eks-see-KAIR-ee-a

Latin Pronunciation: ex-sye-sus
Meaning: cut away.

Meaning: Cut away
Latin Pronunciation: eks-SIZE-a

Meaning: Stripped of bark
Latin Pronunciation: eks-kor-tee-KAT-uh

excentric

Off center.

Meaning: Stripped of bark
Latin Pronunciation: eks-kor-tee-KAT-um

Meaning: Stripped of bark
Latin Pronunciation: eks-kor-tee-KAT-us

excrescence

Abnormal development, an outgrowth.

Meaning: From the Latin ex- (outside) and cubo or cubitor (one who lies down), meaning sentinel or watchman
Latin Pronunciation: eks-KEW-bi-tum

excurved (n. excurvature)

Curved out and away from the central part.

Meaning: From the Latin ex- (outside) and cubo or cubitor (one who lies down), meaning sentinel or watchman
Latin Pronunciation: eks-KEW-bi-tus

Meaning: From the Latin ex- (outside) and cubo or cubitor (one who lies down), meaning sentinel or watchman
Latin Pronunciation: eks-KEW-bi-tuh

excurrent

1. A growth habit with a single vertical trunk, the branches obviously secondary. 2. Describes a costa running out beyond the lamina of a leaf. 3. Running out, as a nerve of a leaf projecting beyond the margin.

exedra

1. An open or colonnaded recess used for conversation, often semicircular and furnished with seats or a long bench. 2. A semicircular bench with a solid back.

Meaning: Tall
Latin Pronunciation: ek-SEL-sus

Meaning: Impoverished, poor, meager
Latin Pronunciation: eks-IG-yoo-uh

exfoliate

To peel off or shed, as the thin layers of bark.

exfoliating

Cleaving off in thin layers.

Meaning: Impoverished, poor, meager
Latin Pronunciation: eks-IG-yoo-um

Meaning: Strikingly unusual
Latin Pronunciation: eks-IM-mee-uh

Meaning: From the Latin exile (thin, slender, feeble, meager)
Latin Pronunciation: EKS-il-lee

Latin Pronunciation: ex-ig-yew-us
Meaning: small, poor.

exiguous

Small and narrow.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-im-ee-us
Meaning: uncommon, distinguished.

Meaning: Strikingly unusual
Latin Pronunciation: eks-IM-mee-um

Meaning: From the Latin exile (thin, slender, feeble, meager)
Latin Pronunciation: EKS-il-iss

exindusiate

Lacking indusia.

exine

The outer layer of the wall of a pollen grain or spore.

exocarp

The outer layer or skin of a pericarp.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-it-ee-oh-sus
Meaning: pernicious, destructive.

Meaning: From the Greek exo (outside) and karpos (fruit), referring to the apparent location of the seed outside of the fruit
Latin Pronunciation: eks-oh-KAR-pos

Meaning: Of or from Exeter, England
Latin Pronunciation: eks-oh-nee-EN-sis

Meaning: Without (lacking) a lid
Latin Pronunciation: eks-oh-per-kyoo-LAH-ta
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:eks-oh-per-kyoo-LAY-ta

exogenous

1. Grown or made outside the body. 2. Growing by annular layers near the surface, as bark. 3. Produced by growth from superficial tissue.

Meaning: Without (lacking) a lid
Latin Pronunciation: eks-oh-per-kyoo-LAH-tus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:eks-oh-per-kyoo-LAY-tus

Meaning: Outer (or outside) root
Latin Pronunciation: eks-oh-RY-zum

Meaning: From the Greek, meaning foreign (non-native)
Latin Pronunciation: eg-ZOT-ih-kuh

Meaning: Outer (or outside) root
Latin Pronunciation: eks-oh-RY-za

exostome

The outer row of teeth of a peristotne.

exotic

Not native, from another area.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-pan-sus
Meaning: expansive.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-ot-ik-us
Meaning: foreign (not native).

Meaning: From the Latin expandare, meaning to expand or spread out
Latin Pronunciation: ek-SPAN-sa

exotic species (syn. alien species)

A species that is not native to a particular geographic location, but may have become naturalized there.

expanded

Increased in area or size.

expectorants

Herbal medicines which can loosen mucus from the throat.

explanate

Flat, fanned out.

Meaning: Without a scape
Latin Pronunciation: eks-SKAY-pum

Latin Pronunciation: ex - skay - pus
Meaning: stalkless, scapeless.

Meaning: Without a scape
Latin Pronunciation: eks-SKAY-puh

Latin Pronunciation: ex-skulp-tus
Meaning: dug or carved out.

exsiccated

Dried.

exserted

1. Projecting beyond an envelope, as stamens from a corolla. 2. In mosses, elevated above the surrounding parts of the capsule, when the perichaetial leaves do not reach as high as their base.

Meaning: Without stipules
Latin Pronunciation: eks-stip-yoo-LAY-ta

Latin Pronunciation: ex-sert-us
Meaning: protruding (exserted).

exstipitate

Lacking a stipe.

extant

Still in existence; not extinct.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-serj-enz
Meaning: rising or standing up.

exstipulate

Having no stipules.

extensile

Capable of enlargement or extension.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-ten-sus
Meaning: extended.

eradicate (n. eradication, syn. exterminate)

To remove entirely; to pull up by the roots.

extinction (syn. extirpation)

The evolutionary end of a species or the loss of a species in a large area such as a state or country, caused by the failure to reproduce and the death of remaining members of the species.

extinct

No longer living; no longer in existence.

extra-axillary

Arising on the side of a stem outside of or opposite to an axil.

extract

A product prepared by removing essential constituents of a plant, such as oils for flavorings.

extirpation

Wiped out, completely destroyed. Carries the connotation of differing from extinction in that it is more often due to human causes.

extirpated

Literally, plucked up by the roots, exterminated. Often used to indicate that a species once lived in an area, and no longer does, usually because of changes in habitat.

extravaginal

Describes a shoot which arises from an axillary bud and breaks through the sheath of the subtending leaf.

Latin Pronunciation: ex-yew-danz
Meaning: exuding (something).

extrafloral

Beyond the essential parts of the flower, as nectaries, bracts, etc.

extrastaminal

Outside the stamens.

extratropical

Outside the tropics.

extrorse

Facing outward.

exudate (syn. sweat)

Matter oozing from a surface.

exvaginate

Outside the sheath.

eye-spot

A red cytoplasmic structure sensitive to light.

Meaning: Named for A. Eyries, 19th century cactus collector, who brought this species to Le Havre
Latin Pronunciation: eye-REE-see-eye

ex situ conservation

A conservation method that entails the removal of seed, pollen, sperm or individual organisms from their original habitat, keeping these resources of biodiversity alive outside of their natural environment.

eye

1. The center of a flower, if a different color from the rest. 2. A stem cutting with a single bud. 3. The undeveloped bud on a tuber.

Meaning: Named for Karl Wilhelm Eysenhardt, 19th century professor of botany at University of Konigsberg, Germany
Latin Pronunciation: eye-sen-HARD-tee-uh

Meaning: Named for the garden of Prince-Bishop Johann Conrad von Gemmingen at Eichst?tt, Germany
Latin Pronunciation: eye-STET-en-sis