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Botany - Flower terms
Category: Animals and Nature > Botany
Date & country: 09/09/2007, USA.
Words: 2228

Marguerite
(Chrysanthemum) These hardy plants are natives of China, Japan, northern Africa, and southern Europe. They belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. Their flowers come in every color except blue. Their blooms come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes. Some are spherical in shape and have incurved petals at the center. Some have tubular-shaped petals of unequal length with little hooks at the end. Spoon Chrysanthemums have rather flat petals that are spoon-shaped at the end. Anemone Chrysanthemumsâ€¦

Marigold
(Calendula) These are lovely, annual plants native to southern Europe. They grow 1Â½ to 2Â½ feet high. Their branching stems are covered with simple, alternate leaves and they produce large flowers in different hues of yellow and orange in the summer. These plants are easy to grow. The main kind is C. officinalis (the Common Pot Marigold), it has light green leaves and short stems bearing single or double, orange, yellow, cream, or white flowers that are 2-3 inches across. These plants are valuablâ€¦

Marlberry
(Ardisia) This is a large group of tender, evergreen shrubs and trees. A. crispa has small, dark green, shiny leaves and pinkish-white flowers in the spring. Small plants look lovely in pots when covered with their scarlet berries in the fall. The flowers and berries last a long time, so it's common to see flowers and green and ripe berries at the same time. This plant forms a bush about 4 feet high. It can be grown in a greenhouse that has a minimum winter temperature of 50 degrees, or as a houâ€¦

Marsh Marigold
(Caltha) These hardy perennials are natives of Europe and America. They belong to the Buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. These plants are found growing in marshes and by the banks of streams. C. palustris, King Cup or Marsh Marigold, forms clumps of kidney-shaped, glossy, dark green leaves, which grow up to 4 inches across and have serrated edges. The cup-shaped, bright golden yellow flowers grow up to 1Â½ inches across and have a waxy appearance. They are borne in long-stalked clusters in the spriâ€¦

Marsilea
(Pepperwort, Water Clover) These aquatic perennials are commonly known as Pepperwort or Water Clover. These plants resemble four-leaf clovers. M. mutica var. Variegata produces vigorous-growing rhizomes from which sprout stems topped with greenish-yellow to brown patterned leaves, which often float on the surface of the water. If Water Clovers are planted in several inches of water they may stand a few inches above the water. These plants are great for planting in moist soil or shallow water on â€¦

Marvel-Of-Peru
(Mirabilis) These are tender perennial, herbaceous plants that are found wild in tropical America and North America. They are erect and branching and can grow up to 4 feet high. The leaves are ovate-lanceolate to heart shaped and grow up to 3 inches long. The long, tubular, fragrant flowers have five lobes and are 1 to 2 inches across. They open in the afternoon, thus the common name 'Four-o'clock' and come in white, red, rose, pink, salmon, or yellow and are often mottled with a second color.â€¦

Mask Flower
(Alonsoa) Alonsoas are tender, evergreen perennials that are usually grown as annuals. They can grow 9-24 inches high and have erect, branching growth. Their stems are wiry and they produce small, flat, 2-lipped blooms in the summer and fall. They can be grown outdoors during the summer, but other times they must be kept in a greenhouse having a minimum temperature of 45-50 degrees. They are natives to Peru and other parts of South America.â€¦

Matricaria
(Chamomile, German Chamomile, May Weed, Sweet False Chamomile, Turfing Daisy) These hardy annuals and perennials are natives of the Mediterranean region, South Africa and the Orient, and are naturalized in North America. They grow from 1 to 2 feet high and have feathery foliage. They produce terminal clusters of small flowers, which resemble daisies. M. inodora is an annual that has white flowers. M. Tchihatchewii, the Turfing Daisy, is a mat-forming plant that grows 6 to 12 inches high. M. recuâ€¦

Matteuccia
This deciduous fern is also known as the Ostrich Fern or Ostrich-Feather Fern. The fronds of this plant grow erectly or with a slight arch. They are deciduous (leaf-losing), lance-shaped and bright, clear green. The dark brown, inner, fertile fronds are winter persistent. The Ostrich Fern grows up to 3 feet high with a spread of 18 inches and is excellent for planting by water.â€¦

Matthiola
(Stock) These perennial, annual and biennial plants come from Europe and Asia Minor. They grow in erect, neat clumps; the dwarfs are 8 to 12 inches high and the standards, 2 to 2Â½ feet high. The leaves are gray green, oblong to oblanceolate and up to 4 inches long. They produce tons of pretty, fragrant flowers, which may be single or double and up to an inch across. They grow in terminal racemes and may be colored pink, red, purple, or white. Picking off the dead flowers will increase their blooâ€¦

May Weed
(Matricaria) These hardy annuals and perennials are natives of the Mediterranean region, South Africa and the Orient, and are naturalized in North America. They grow from 1 to 2 feet high and have feathery foliage. They produce terminal clusters of small flowers, which resemble daisies. M. inodora is an annual that has white flowers. M. Tchihatchewii, the Turfing Daisy, is a mat-forming plant that grows 6 to 12 inches high. M. recutita, Sweet False Chamomile or German Chamomile, is an annual thaâ€¦

Maypop
(Passiflora) This group consists of about 350, tender, evergreen and deciduous, climbing plants that are mainly natives of tropical South America. Their slim stems, which climb by means of tendrils, can grow 20-30 feet in length and are clothed with small, dark green leaves. Their beautiful flowers are 3-5 inches in diameter and are borne singly on long stalks. They consist of a tubular calyx with five lobes or sepals and these are often the same size as the petals (Petals and sepals are collectâ€¦

Meadow Saxifrage
(Saxifraga) Saxifraga is a large group of hardy perennial plants. Only a few are annuals or biennials. They are mostly natives of North and South Temperate and Arctic regions. A few are found in Asia and they are rare in South America. The name is an old Latin name derived from saxum, a rock and frangor, to break; the plant was thought to break stones in the bladder. Rockfoil is a common name given to Saxifrages. The Saxifrages are a varied group of plants and botanists have divideâ€¦

Medusa'S Head
(Euphorbia) These plants come in a wide assortment of shapes. Some resemble Cacti, forming almost leafless, green, spindly stems with small flowers at the ends, some are boring weeds, a few would accent the herbaceous border, some are lovely flowering shrubs and some have tree-like growth. Euphorbias contain a milky-looking poisonous sap that the stems and leaves secrete after any injury. It may cause blisters on sensitive skin; therefore, care should be taken when handling these plants. The actâ€¦

Melia
(Bead Tree, Chinaberry, Indian Lilac, Neem Tree, Pride Of India, Texas Umbrella Tree) These tender, deciduous trees are natives of Asia and Australia and are grown for their pretty foliage and flowers. M. azedarach, the most popular kind, has several common names including Chinaberry, Bead Tree, Indian Lilac and Pride of India. This quick-growing tree reaches an ultimate height ranging from 35 to 50 feet. The Chinaberry has thick, feathery, dark green leaves. They grow up to 3 feet long and 1 foâ€¦

Melianthus
(Honeybush, Honeyflower) These slightly hardy to frost-tender perennials and shrubs are native to South Africa. They are mainly grown for the beauty of their foliage. M. major (Honeybush) is a large, evergreen shrub that grows from 6 to 10 feet high, or up to 4 feet high in cool climates. It has a spread from 6 to 10 feet. The evergreen or deciduous, glaucous blue leaves grow up to 18 inches long and are divided into 7 to 13, toothed, oval leaflets. The small, tubular, brownish-red flowers are pâ€¦

Melica
This ornamental grass grows up to 2 feet high and wide. Its broad, linear, green leaves are arching and hairy. In the summer, thin spikes of tiny, dark mauve flowers are produced.â€¦

Melissa
(Balm, Lemon Balm) M. officinalis, Balm or Lemon Balm, is a half hardy perennial that originates from the Mediterranean region and Asia and has become naturalized in the moist, lightly shaded meadows of North America. When mowed, it penetrates the air with the scent of lemons. Lemon Balm grows in clumps 2 to 22 feet high. The soft shoots are covered with wide, toothed, dark green leaves, which are used in meat sauces, fruit dishes and drinks.â€¦

Melittis
This perennial (commonly called Bastard Balm) is found wild from west central and south Europe to the Ukraine. This plant forms tufts of fragrant, mid- to bright green foliage. Each leaf is hairy and has finely scalloped margins. The tubular, 2-lipped flowers are borne in whorls in the axils of leafy spikes, in the summer. They may be pink, purple or white with a purple lower lip. This plant grows up to a foot high and wide.â€¦

Melocactus
(Melon Cactus, Turk's Cap Cactus) This group consists of about 40 cacti from the West Indies, Mexico, and northern South America. These slow-growing cacti can be difficult to grow, but are fascinating. They are endangered in the wild. These globular plants produce a colorful cephalium, or densely spined crown, which gives them their common names of Turk's Cap Cacti or Melon Cacti. The cephalium is produced once the plant reaches maturity, at which time the plant quits growing. The areoles at theâ€¦

Melon
(Cucumis) Cucumis is a large group comprised of Melons and Cucumbers. They are climbing plants found wild in Asia. Just below are some descriptions of the Cucumber family (cucurbitaceae); following will be descriptions of Melonsâ€¦

Melon Cactus
(Melocactus) This group consists of about 40 cacti from the West Indies, Mexico, and northern South America. These slow-growing cacti can be difficult to grow, but are fascinating. They are endangered in the wild. These globular plants produce a colorful cephalium, or densely spined crown, which gives them their common names of Turk's Cap Cacti or Melon Cacti. The cephalium is produced once the plant reaches maturity, at which time the plant quits growing. The areoles at the crown of the plant mâ€¦

Melon Sword
(Echinodorus) E. radican var. Marble Queen is an aquatic perennial, commonly known as Melon Sword. It has large, medium green leaves mottled with creamy white to pale yellow patches. In the summer, small flowers resembling those of Sagittaria, are produced on top of arching stems; they are light purple fading to pink. This plant grows up to 3 feet high.â€¦

Melon Tree
(Carica) This group consists of about 25 species of semi-succulent trees native to tropical America. These trees have straight trunks and are topped with palmate leaves.The most popularly grown species is C. papaya, commonly known as the Papaya, Melon Tree (though technically it is a large herb) or Pawpaw (Note: Pawpaw is also the common name of an entirely different fruit called Asimina.) The Papaya is a short-lived, evergreen plant that can grow up to 25 feet high. Its hollow, fleshy, gâ€¦

Melongene
(Solanum) This is a large group of tender and hardy, herbaceous, shrubby, or climbing plants. They are found wild in many countries, but mainly in Costa Rica, Chile, tropical Africa and Europe. Several kinds are found in North America. Many are grown for decoration, but two are grown as vegetables. These vegetables are S. melongena variety esculentum, the Eggplant, and S. tuberosum, the Potato. The Solanums can be distinguished by their flowers, which are rotate (wheel-shaped), five petaled, whiâ€¦

Mentha
(Apple Mint, Bog Mint, Curly Mint, Pennyroyal, Peppermint, Pineapple Mint, Spearmint, Water Mint) This is a large group of well-known perennial herbs, which are widely spread over the temperate parts of the world. Mentha includes the Apple Mint, Curly Mint, Pennyroyal, Peppermint, Pineapple Mint, Spearmint and Water or Bog Mint. Following are descriptions of each variety.â€¦

Mentzelia
(Bartonia, Blazing Star) This is a small group of erect growing annuals and biennials that come from North and South America. Their foliage is waxy, cut or toothed and 2 to 3 inches in length. The pretty, fragrant flowers grow up to 5 inches across and can resemble those of the daisy, cactus or passiflora. They are a creamy white to a greenish yellow color; some open at night.â€¦

Menyanthes
(Bogbean) M. trifoliata is a hardy aquatic plant that is native to the bogs of North America. The Bogbean, as it is commonly called, has spongy, trailing roots, from which grow smooth, green, partially prostrate stems. These stems are clothed with olive-green leaves consisting of three leaflets. Roots grow along the length of the stem and sink into the soil. In mid-spring, long stems, 10 to 16 inches in length, are topped with small, white, fringed flowers. This plant doesn't flower well, if at â€¦

Mercury
(Chenopodium) These hardy annuals or perennials may be grown for decoration and some kinds are vegetables. They come from various parts of the world such as Europe and China and are naturalized in America.â€¦

Mertensia
These hardy perennials are natives to North America and Japan. They grow from 12 to 24 inches high and bear clusters of bell-shaped flowers. M. pulmonarioides (Bluebells/Virginian Cowslip) is a plant with oval, blue green leaves that die by mid-summer. The tubular-bell-shaped, deep blue flowers hang in clusters in the leaf axils, in the spring. M. simplicissima has succulent, light blue-gray leaves that are round to spoon-shaped. In early summer, small, blue flowers are borne atop low stems.â€¦

Mescal Bean
(Sophora) This is a group of tender and hardy, evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs. S. japonica, the Chinese Scholar Tree or Japanese Pagoda Tree, is a native of China. This handsome, deciduous plant makes a wonderful shade tree and can even tolerate the polluted atmosphere of the city. When grown in a yard, the Japanese Pagoda Tree can reach a height ranging from 50 to 75 feet; however, when grown along the road in compact soil, it only grows to 30 or 40 feet. The 6- to 10-inch, bright-greâ€¦

Mesquite
(Prosopis) These deciduous trees grow wild from the southeastern part of the U.S. to Chile. These trees are commonly known as Mesquite, Algarobe and Cashaw. Mesquites are suitable for growing in hot, dry climates because their taproots grow deeply in search of moisture (as much as 50 to 60 feet deep on mature desert trees) enabling them to withstand drought and high temperatures. P. glandulosa (Honey Mesquite) grows from 15 to 30 feet high depending on the amount of moisture available. These treâ€¦

Mexican Fire Plant
(Euphorbia) These plants come in a wide assortment of shapes. Some resemble Cacti, forming almost leafless, green, spindly stems with small flowers at the ends, some are boring weeds, a few would accent the herbaceous border, some are lovely flowering shrubs and some have tree-like growth. Euphorbias contain a milky-looking poisonous sap that the stems and leaves secrete after any injury. It may cause blisters on sensitive skin; therefore, care should be taken when handling these plants. The actâ€¦

Mexican Giant
(Pachycereus) This group consists of twelve, columnar-shaped cacti native to parts of the southern United States and Mexico. This group contains some of the largest-growing cacti; they range in height from 13 to 42 feet. Some have solitary stems but many branch to form clumps or even trees. Mature plants that are 6 to 15 years old bear flowers. The blossoms are funnel-shaped and tinged with white or pink. They only open at night and are produced at the stem tips in spring to early summer. They aâ€¦

Mexican Giant Barrel
(Echinocactus) This group consists of six cacti native to Mexico and the southwestern U.S. These globular- to barrel-shaped plants (Hedgehog Cactus) vary in size from small plants only 41/2 inches wide to giants 3 feet wide and 61/2 feet high, weighing more than 2,200 pounds. These plants produce a ring of open-faced flowers on the plant's crown ranging in color from golden yellow to purplish-red. These cacti are suitable for growing in containers in a greenhouse or home and as landscape plants.â€¦

Mexican Husk Tomato
(Physalis) This is a group of annuals and perennials, which are grown for their fruits and for decoration. They grow wild in Europe, America and Asia and belong to the Potato family, Solanaceae.â€¦

Mexican Orange Flower
(Choisya) This group consists of seven tender, evergreen shrubs native to Mexico and the southwestern U.S. C. ternata (Mexican Orange Flower) is a round, medium-sized shrub that will grow 5 to 10 feet high. It has glossy, dark green leaves usually consisting of three leaflets, sometimes two or four. The leaflets grow 1Â½ to 3 inches long and Â½ to 1 inch wide. When they are crushed they release a strong, pungent odor. From early spring to late summer and often again in the fall, white, fragrant flâ€¦

Mexican Paloverde
(Parkinsonia) These tender, spiny trees or shrubs are natives of tropical America. These trees grow quickly when young, but slow down as they age; they eventually attain a height of about 30 feet. P. aculeata, commonly known as the Jerusalem Thorn, Mexican Paloverde and Ratama, is an attractive tree that can be grown in warm, tropical climates only. Its green branches are irregularly arranged and equipped with pointy spines. The interesting, feathery, compound leaves are 8 to 12 inches long and â€¦

Mexican Potato
(Pachyrhizus) This group consists of two tuberous-rooted, perennial, tropical vines belonging to the Pea or Bean family, Leguminosae. They are natives of South America and Mexico. These vines can climb up to 20 feet and have 3-parted leaves. They produce pretty sprays of green, blue, purple, white, or mauve flowers, which are followed by poisonous seedpods, 6 to 8 inches long. P. erosus is grown for its edible root known as Jicama. Other common names include Mexican Potato, Mexican â€¦

Mexican Tree Fern
(Cibotium) A large fern that is native to Mexico and China and has lacy, light green, leathery fronds which range in length from 18 inches to 3 feet. After many years, these will eventually form a trunk that can grow from 10-15 feet in height. One species, C. Barometz, is native from China and is not in cultivation any longer. It is said to bear an interesting resemblance to a lamb. The natives used to regard it as a half-plant, half-animal that had flesh and blood and was covered with wool and â€¦

Mexican Tulip Poppy
(Hunnemannia) This herbaceous plant is originally from Mexico. It grows 2 to 3 feet high and has blue-green, finely dissected leaves. Its flowers resemble poppies and grow 2 to 3 inches across; they are bright yellow. In mild climates, this plant can be grown as a perennial outside.â€¦

Mexican Turnip
(Pachyrhizus) This group consists of two tuberous-rooted, perennial, tropical vines belonging to the Pea or Bean family, Leguminosae. They are natives of South America and Mexico. These vines can climb up to 20 feet and have 3-parted leaves. They produce pretty sprays of green, blue, purple, white, or mauve flowers, which are followed by poisonous seedpods, 6 to 8 inches long. P. erosus is grown for its edible root known as Jicama. Other common names include Mexican Potato, Mexican â€¦

Mezereon
(Daphne) This group consists of about fifty hardy and tender, evergreen and deciduous shrubs from Europe, North Africa, and Asia. Most of these shrubs are small, but some grow quite large and some are prostrate plants suitable for the rock garden. Daphne produce fragrant, tubular-shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors. They are suitable for cutting, though the scent, if placed in a small space, may become overpowering. Take care when children and pets are around as these plants are poisâ€¦

Michelia
This group consists of about fifty species of tender, evergreen trees and shrubs belonging to the family, Magnoliaceae. These plants are natives of tropical and subtropical Southeast Asia. M. figo (Banana Shrub; Port Wine Magnolia) is a slow growing, medium-sized to large shrub that can grow up to 15 feet high and almost as wide. It is covered with small, glossy green leaves and bears clusters of large, white, sometimes purple-streaked, flowers with a potent, sweet banana scent. Thâ€¦

Microlepia
This frost tender Fern is excellent for growing in shallow pots or hanging baskets in the house or sunroom. It has pale green, irregularly lance-shaped, finely divided fronds up to 32 inches in length. This Fern grows up to 3 feet high with a spread of 2 feet.â€¦

Mignonette
(Reseda) These are hardy annual or perennial plants, which are originally from northern Africa, Europe and the Canary Islands; they are naturalized in North America. The name is derived from resado, to calm, which refers to the alleged medicinal values of the plant. The most popular kind is R. odorata (commonly known as Mignonette). This perennial plant is usually treated as an annual and grown from seed each spring. It is mainly cultivated for the lovely scent of its flowers, which grow â€¦

Milkbush
(Euphorbia) These plants come in a wide assortment of shapes. Some resemble Cacti, forming almost leafless, green, spindly stems with small flowers at the ends, some are boring weeds, a few would accent the herbaceous border, some are lovely flowering shrubs and some have tree-like growth. Euphorbias contain a milky-looking poisonous sap that the stems and leaves secrete after any injury. It may cause blisters on sensitive skin; therefore, care should be taken when handling these plants. The actâ€¦

Milkweed
(Asclepias) Most of these perennials are from North America, but at least one is from South Africa and one is found in tropical America. Nearly all of these erect plants grow 2 or 3 feet high, but one, A. physocarpa (also known as Gomphocarpus physocarpus and commonly known as the Swan Plant), grows up to 6 feet high with a spread of 2 feet. This plant has lance-shaped, medium green, hairy leaves. During the summer, umbels of creamy or greenish-white flowers are produced; these are followed by iâ€¦

Miltomate
(Physalis) This is a group of annuals and perennials, which are grown for their fruits and for decoration. They grow wild in Europe, America and Asia and belong to the Potato family, Solanaceae.â€¦

Mimulus
(Monkey Flower, Musk) These hardy and tender herbs are natives of the Americas, Australia, Africa and Asia. They form clumps, 8 to 10 inches high and have heart-shaped to oblong-lanceolate leaves, 3 to 6 inches long. Their flowers are pouched, 1 to 2 inches across and may be cream, red, rose, yellow, or wine and are often marked with a contrasting color. M. cupreus is a perennial that grows 6 to 9 inches tall. In the regions where it is hardy, it is great for the cooler, moister parts of the rocâ€¦

Miner'S Lettuce
(Montia) This vegetable is also known as Winter Purslane, Cuban Spinach and Miner's Lettuce. Miner's Lettuce was a blessing to prospectors starved for greens during the 1849 gold rush. It clothes meadows during the spring rainy season and lasts for weeks longer in shaded dells. The small plants have oval to lance-shaped basal leaves on long petioles (leaf stalks) and interesting, disk-shaped leaves that appear to be threaded along the slender stems. They make very pretty garnishes and can be useâ€¦

Ming Aralia
(Polyscias) This group consists of about 80 tropical shrubs and trees that are native to New Zealand, tropical Asia and the Pacific Islands. They are excellent as houseplants in cold climates and as hedges in very warm ones. These plants are also excellent as Bonsai specimens. These plants are valued for their decorative foliage, which is finely divided and in some species, beautifully variegated. P. fruticosa (Ming Aralia) can grow up to 8 feet high (though it can be kept small by pruning) and â€¦

Mint Geranium
(Chrysanthemum) These hardy plants are natives of China, Japan, northern Africa, and southern Europe. They belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. Their flowers come in every color except blue. Their blooms come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes. Some are spherical in shape and have incurved petals at the center. Some have tubular-shaped petals of unequal length with little hooks at the end. Spoon Chrysanthemums have rather flat petals that are spoon-shaped at the end. Anemone Chrysanthemumsâ€¦

Mirabilis
(Four-O'clock, Marvel-Of-Peru) These are tender perennial, herbaceous plants that are found wild in tropical America and North America. They are erect and branching and can grow up to 4 feet high. The leaves are ovate-lanceolate to heart shaped and grow up to 3 inches long. The long, tubular, fragrant flowers have five lobes and are 1 to 2 inches across. They open in the afternoon, thus the common name 'Four-o'clock' and come in white, red, rose, pink, salmon, or yellow and are often mottled witâ€¦

Mirasol
(Helianthus) These are hardy herbaceous perennials or annuals found wild in North America. They produce large yellow flowers in late summer and autumn. The perennial kinds are tall and vigorous. H. decapetalus multiflorus and its double variety, Soliel d'Or, grow 4 to 5 feet high. The prettiest one is called Monarch; it is a variety of H. atrorubens sparsifolius. This plant will grow 6 to 7 feet high and bear large, golden yellow blooms. All of the perennial kinds have yellow blossoms. H. argyroâ€¦

Mirliton
(Sechium) This is a semi-hardy perennial vine native to South America. It can grow up to 15 feet in the mid-South and up to 30 feet in the Southwest. The Chayote produces waxy-green, pear shaped fruits. Some are spiny and some are ridged. Other common names that is goes by includes Mirliton, Christophine and Vegetable Pear. In climates where they can survive the winter, the tuberous roots grow large and can be eaten candied, boiled, or roasted.â€¦

Miscanthus
(Eulalia, Zebra Grass) These ornamental Grasses are natives of Japan and China. The variegated kinds make lovely potted plants in 5- or 6-inch pots. M. sinensis Zebrinus (Zebra Grass) forms tufts of long, arching, linear leaves. They are bluish green with yellow or creamy-white horizontal bands. In early fall, fan-shaped heads of tiny, white flowers are borne. This plant grows up to 4 feet high. M. sinensis Gracillimus has long, thin, arching leaves that are bluish-green with a white midrib, usuâ€¦

Misty Flower
(Eupatorium) These hardy and frost tender perennials and shrubs are found in North and South America, Europe and Asia and are grown mainly for their flowers, though some are valued for their ornamental foliage. The name commemorates Mithridates Eupator, King of Pontus, who is credited with discovering that one of the varieties could be used as a remedy for poison. E. purpureum (Joe Pye Weed) is a vigorous growing perennial that can reach a height of 7 feet. Its coarse, finely toothed, mid-green â€¦

Mitsumata
(Edgeworthia) This group consists of two tender, semi-evergreen or deciduous shrubs native to China and the Himalayas. E. chrysantha (Paper Bush, Mitsumata) is a deciduous plant that grows 4 to 5 feet high. In late winter this plant produces thick, nodding clusters of scented, yellow flowers, which are covered on the outside with silky hairs. This variety is used in Japan to make high quality banknote paper.â€¦

Mock Azalea
(Adenium) This group of succulents is mainly from Africa, though one variety is found in Arabia and one on the Isle of Socotra. The gorgeous blossoms of these bushy plants resemble those of the Oleander to which they are closely related. The open-faced flowers are ordinarily crimson, pink, or white and are followed by green seedpods. They grow periodically from spring to fall on new growth. Like the Oleanders, all the species in this group contain poisonous sap. A. obesum (Desert Azalea; Dâ€¦

Moltkia
These perennials are grown for their pretty flowers. They are natives of Europe, Albania and Asia. M. doerfleri grows up to 20 inches high with a spread of 10 inches. Its bright green leaves are small and lance-shaped and covered in tiny bristles, which are pressed closely against the surface. In early summer, terminal clusters are produced consisting of a few, small, tubular to funnel-shaped, purplish-pink flowers. M. petraea is a shrubby variety with dark green foliage and heads of bright blueâ€¦

Momordica
(Balsam Apple, Balsam Pear, Bitter Cucumber, Bitter Melon, La-Kwa) Momordica belongs to the cucumber family, Cucurbitaceae. M. charantia, Balsam Pear, Bitter Cucumber, La-Kwa, or Bitter Melon, is a tender, tropical perennial grown as an annual. They are luscious, high-climbing vines with slightly fuzzy stems clothed with dark green, deeply lobed leaves and yellow, dioecious (male & female organs on separate flowers) flowers. The blossoms have 5 petals and are an inch in diameter. In regions â€¦

Monarda
(Bee Balm, Bergamot, Horse Mint, Lemon Mint, Oswego Tea) These are erect clumps of annual and perennial herbaceous plants that grow wild in North America. These plants can grow up to 3 feet high and are usually sold for the beauty of their striking blossoms. M. pectinata (the Lemon Mint) has thin leaves that are lanceolate to oblong and have the scent of lemons. It bears whorls of flowers that are up to 2 inches across and may be white to pink and purplish. The most popular kind is M. didyma (Osâ€¦

Money Plant
(Crassula) This large group consists of succulent plants that are natives of South Africa and Madagascar. The succulents in this group vary greatly in shape and size. Some varieties only grow an inch high at maturity, while others become 15-foot trees. C. ovata (Jade Plant; Chinese Rubber Tree; Money Plant) is an evergreen succulent that forms a large bush or small tree. Its shiny green, fleshy leaves are round or lance shaped and sometimes edged with red. In the spring, its old leaves fall; at â€¦

Moneywort
(Lysimachia) Golden Globes.These hardy and tender perennials and annuals are found throughout the temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere. A few grow wild in Australia, South Africa and South America. Few of the Loosestrifes have value in the garden. L. clethroides (Gooseneck Loosestrife) is a vigorous growing perennial from Japan that forms clumps of lance-shaped, mid-green leaves that are yellowish when young. The tiny, star-shaped, white flowers are borne in compactâ€¦

Monk'S Hood
(Astrophytum) This popular group of cacti consists of only four wild species and maybe a dozen hybrids. These natives to Mexico are suitable for growing in greenhouses, windowsills and outdoors where climates permit. Most of these cacti form short, spherical plants that may or may not have spines. They are usually flecked with small, white scales. In spring to late summer, numerous, large, daisy-like, yellow flowers grow at the plant's crown. Each long-lasting flower opens completely in bright lâ€¦

Monkey Flower
(Mimulus) These hardy and tender herbs are natives of the Americas, Australia, Africa and Asia. They form clumps, 8 to 10 inches high and have heart-shaped to oblong-lanceolate leaves, 3 to 6 inches long. Their flowers are pouched, 1 to 2 inches across and may be cream, red, rose, yellow, or wine and are often marked with a contrasting color. M. cupreus is a perennial that grows 6 to 9 inches tall. In the regions where it is hardy, it is great for the cooler, moister parts of the rock garden or â€¦

Monkey-Puzzle
(Araucaria) These evergreen trees are natives of Australia, South America, New Guinea, New Caledonia and Norfolk Island. A. araucana (Monkey Puzzle Tree or Chilean Pine) is native of southern Chile and Tierra del Fuego. In the U.S., it is hardy in mild climates and on the Pacific Coast, though it does better in cooler, coastal regions. In Great Britain and the milder climates of Europe it is a common sight in the landscape. The Monkey Puzzle Tree has spidery branches, which are entirely surroundâ€¦

Monkshood
(Aconitum) These fibrous- and tuberous-rooted perennials belong to the Buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. They are found wild in the meadows of Europe and East Asia. They grow from 3 to 4 feet high, and the roots and plants are poisonous. A. Sparks Variety (Monkshood) is an upright plant with dark green leaves that are deeply divided into 3 or 5 thin, shiny lobes. The large, hooded flowers are rich violet-blue and produced on widely branching stems in mid- to late summer. A. cammarum bicolorâ€¦

Monstera
These are tropical, climbing plants found wild in tropical America, Mexico and Costa Rica. Its large, leathery, leaves can grow to 3 feet. They are deeply divided and perforated with holes. Its flowers are yellow and resemble the Calla Lily. They produce a cylindrical, edible fruit in the wild, resembling a Pineapple and that has a Pineapple-Banana taste to it. It rarely fruits outside the tropics, however. It has woody branches that cling to trees with long, cordlike aerial roots.â€¦

Montia
(Cuban Spinach, Miner's Lettuce, Winter Purslane) This vegetable is also known as Winter Purslane, Cuban Spinach and Miner's Lettuce. Miner's Lettuce was a blessing to prospectors starved for greens during the 1849 gold rush. It clothes meadows during the spring rainy season and lasts for weeks longer in shaded dells. The small plants have oval to lance-shaped basal leaves on long petioles (leaf stalks) and interesting, disk-shaped leaves that appear to be threaded along the slender stems. They â€¦

Moonflower
(Calonyction) These are gorgeous, herbaceous plants that climb. They bloom in the evening and are related to the Morning Glory. They grow wild in the tropics of both hemispheres. C. aculeatum is the most common kind. It can reach a height of 15 feet or more. It's covered with lovely leaves and white, fragrant flowers that resemble trumpets, up to 6 inches across. Calonyctions (Moonflowers) are able to thrive as perennials outside in the far South only. Otherwise, they may be grown in greenhousesâ€¦

Moonwort
(Lunaria) These annuals and perennials are found naturally from Europe to eastern Siberia. They are grown for their pretty flowers and decorative seedpods, called silicles. Lunaria (commonly called Honesty, Money Plant, Moonwort, Satin Flower and Silver Dollars) is derived from luna, the moon, and refers to the shape of the seedpods. L. rediviva is a perennial that grows 24 to 30 inches high. Its oval-lance-shaped leaves are finely serrated and medium green; they are sometimes tingâ€¦

Moosewood
(Acer) These are hardy, ornamental trees that vary in height. The dwarf, Japanese Maples are only 2-3 feet high and some of the North American kinds may grow 100 or more feet. These trees are natives of various parts of Europe, North America and Asia. The word acer, is the Latin name for Maple. The Maples that are commonly grown are deciduous (leaf losing) and most are hardy in the North. Most Maples have clusters of small, greenish-white or yellow flowers; in some kinds, they are râ€¦

Morina
These perennials (commonly known as Whorlflowers) are natives of the Himalayas. They grow from 1 to 3 feet high. M. longifolia is the most common kind. It has basal rosettes of bright green, fragrant, spiny and thistle-like leaves. In mid-summer, whorls of waxy, tubular flowers are produced on stout stems. They are white turning pink after fertilization.â€¦

Morning Glory
(Ipomoea) These perennial or annual climbing plants come from North America, Asia, South Africa and the West Indies and have several common names, one of which is Morning Glory. This group includes the Sweet Potato, I. Batatas. Most of these plants, however, are grown for their pretty flowers. The twining, climbers grow from 10 to 30 feet high and the bushy Morning Glory forms a mound, 3 to 4 feet high. The leaves are green or variegated silvery white, ovate or heart-shaped and up to 6 inches acâ€¦

Morus
(Mulberry Tree) These deciduous (leaf-losing) trees, commonly known as Mulberry trees, grow wild in North America and Asia. Mulberry trees can grow to good sizes, but when out in the open, usually develop a short, stout trunk and a thick, wide head of branches. Mulberry trees are long lived and often rejuvenate themselves even after falling to the ground because of decay. A dormant bud near the base of the old tree may germinate or a strong, young stem may sprout. Trees that have been blown downâ€¦

Mosaic Plant
(Fittonia) These tropical, creeping perennials are natives of Peru. They are grown for their ornamental foliage. They have fleshy, trailing stems and oval, brightly colored leaves. F. Verschaffeltii has olive green leaves veined with scarlet or ruby red. Insignificant flowers grow on this plant and if they are pinched off the plant will be less straggly. Its variety argyroneura has dark, emerald green leaves netted with white; its flowers also need to be pinched off regularly. These plants grow â€¦

Moses-In-A-Boat
(Rhoeo) This is a native of the West Indies and Mexico. It is naturalized in southern Florida. It is grown as a house and greenhouse plant. R. discolor has tough, waxy, dark green leaves that are purple underneath. In the axils of the leaves, they produce small white flowers that are surrounded with two purple bracts making it look like a miniature boat, hence the name Moses-in-a-Boat. The flowers aren't really conspicuous and they stay open for only a few hours, but they bloom daily over a longâ€¦

Mosquito Grass
(Chondrosum) This is a grass grown for ornament. It is commonly called Blue grama and Mosquito Grass. This grass forms tufts of narrow, linear, dark gray-green leaves. In the summer, tiny, purple-brown flowers grow in little spikes. It grows up to 20 inches high and spreads about 8 inches.â€¦

Moss Pink
(Phlox) This is a group of hardy and tender plants, which are native of North America. The name Phlox means flame, in regard to the bright colors of the blooms. These plants are great for borders, rock gardens and flowerbeds. The annual kinds can be grown in a greenhouse for spring and winter bloom. They are also useful for cutting their flowers. P. drummondii is a bushy or trailing annual that is self-branching and grows 8 to 24 inches. The ovate to lanceolate leaves grow up to 3 inches long. Tâ€¦

Mother Of Thousands
(Kalanchoe) This large group consisting of succulent plants is found in subtropical and tropical countries throughout the world. These plants vary greatly; they range from leafy succulents to huge tree-like plants. The shapes, sizes and colors of the leaves are as equally diverse; some have whole or toothed edges, and some may be smooth or very fuzzy. Some species make excellent houseplants. In early spring or fall, bell-shaped flowers that may be white, red, purple, yellow, orange, or broâ€¦

Mother-In-Law`S-Tongue
(Sansevieria) Commonly known as Mother-in-Law`s-Tongue or Snake Plant. This plant grows very well in modern homes, as it does not mind the dry climate. The sturdy leaves come in several shades of green with yellow edges. It is safe to place in a sunny location or low light. This is a very hardy plant that is almost impossible to kill. Water moderately and have adequate drainage. Do not let the plant sit in water this will cause root rot.â€¦

Mother-In-Law'S Chair
(Echinocactus) This group consists of six cacti native to Mexico and the southwestern U.S. These globular- to barrel-shaped plants (Hedgehog Cactus) vary in size from small plants only 41/2 inches wide to giants 3 feet wide and 61/2 feet high, weighing more than 2,200 pounds. These plants produce a ring of open-faced flowers on the plant's crown ranging in color from golden yellow to purplish-red. These cacti are suitable for growing in containers in a greenhouse or home and as landscape plants.â€¦

Mother-In-Low`S-Tongue
(Sansevieria) Commonly known as Mother-in-Law`s-Tongue or Snake Plant. This plant grows very well in modern homes, as it does not mind the dry climate. The sturdy leaves come in several shades of green with yellow edges. It is safe to place in a sunny location or low light. This is a very hardy plant that is almost impossible to kill. Water moderately and have adequate drainage. Do not let the plant sit in water this will cause root rot.â€¦

Mother-Of-Thousands
(Saxifraga) Saxifraga is a large group of hardy perennial plants. Only a few are annuals or biennials. They are mostly natives of North and South Temperate and Arctic regions. A few are found in Asia and they are rare in South America. The name is an old Latin name derived from saxum, a rock and frangor, to break; the plant was thought to break stones in the bladder. Rockfoil is a common name given to Saxifrages. The Saxifrages are a varied group of plants and botanists have divideâ€¦

Mother'S Fern
(Asplenium) These Ferns are natives of North America, Africa, India and other countries. With long, broad, bright green leaves that can grow up to 18 inches high, this plant doesn't really look like the typical fern. The tougher plants come from North America and they are good for growing outdoors in gardens as long as they have well-drained soil. A. platyneuron (Ebony Spleenwort), A. viride (Green Spleenwort), A. Bradleyi and A. Trichomanes (Maidenhair Spleenwort) are all hardy Aspleniums. Theyâ€¦

Mount Washington Dryad
(Dryas) This group consists of two hardy, creeping plants native to North America, Europe and Asia. Commonly known as Mountain Avens, these dwarf perennials are suitable for growing in the rock garden, scree, over paving, and the top of stone walls. They have crinkled, evergreen, oak-like, glossy dark green leaves that are grayish-green underneath. D. octopetala (Mount Washington Dryad) is a mat-forming variety that produces tons of cup-shaped, white flowers centered with golden yellow stamens. â€¦

Mountain Ash
(Sorbus) This is a large group or mostly hardy, deciduous trees and shrubs. They are very easily grown and among the most decorative trees for the yard providing an attractive display for more than one season. There are basically two different types of Sorbus. The plants belonging to the first type are commonly known as Whitebeams. They have simple leaves that often have serrated margins and are sometimes lobed. The leaves are ordinarily white or silvery beneath giving them a shimmering look wheâ€¦

Mountain Avens
(Dryas) This group consists of two hardy, creeping plants native to North America, Europe and Asia. Commonly known as Mountain Avens, these dwarf perennials are suitable for growing in the rock garden, scree, over paving, and the top of stone walls. They have crinkled, evergreen, oak-like, glossy dark green leaves that are grayish-green underneath. D. octopetala (Mount Washington Dryad) is a mat-forming variety that produces tons of cup-shaped, white flowers centered with golden yellow stamens. â€¦

Mountain Bluet
(Centaurea) These are hardy, herbaceous, perennial and annual plants that are natives of many European countries, in North America and other numerous places. Some of the herbaceous kinds make very nice border plants. Centaureas belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. The annual Cornflower, C. Cyanus, also known as Bachelor's-Button, grows 1 to 11/2 feet high. This plant produces blue, rose or white flowers that may be single or double. They are great for cut flowers. C. americana is a pretty annâ€¦

Mountain Ebony
(Bauhinia) These beautiful, tender trees and shrubs are natives of India, Malaya, China and tropical Africa. These plants are popular in warm regions for their gorgeous, Orchid-like blossoms. The flowers are 2 to 3 inches across, may be white, pink or purple, and are borne in the winter and early spring; they are followed by 6- to 8-inch, flat, brown seedpods. The young foliage and blossoms are stewed and eaten as vegetables in their native countries. B. monandra, commonly known as Butterfly Floâ€¦

Mountain Spinach
(Atriplex) These plants form handsome, annual or tender perennial shrubs that are grown for ornament or as a vegetable. Those grown for decoration are only hardy in mild climates. A. Halimus forms a shrub, 3 to 4 feet high with silvery-gray foliage. It grows well by the seaside in mild climates. A. Breweri and A. canescens also have gray leaves. These plants should be pruned in March to maintain a shapely appearance. A. hortensis, Mountain Spinach or Orach, is a tall, frost-hardy annual that is â€¦

Mountain Wood Fern
(Dryopteris) This is a large group of ferns, which are all pretty easy to cultivate, whether they are hardy or tender. D. Filix-mas (the Male fern) has fronds up to 2 feet long and a foot wide. They are great for placing in open woodland or for shady spots. D. erythrosora, a native of Japan, grows fronds up to 18 inches long. It makes a very lovely houseplant. D. Linnaeana (the Oak Fern) has broad fronds, 6 to 10 inches long.â€¦

Mourning Bride
(Scabiosa) These are hardy perennial and annual herbaceous plants that are used for cut flowers as well as garden decoration. The name Scabiosa is derived from scabies, itch; in regard to the plant's supposed properties of curing irritation of the skin. These plants have upright growth, 2 to 3 feet in height. Their leaves are lanceolate and coarsely toothed, growing up to 4 inches long. They grow mostly at the base of the plant. The fragrant flowers are 2 to 3 inches across and are domed â€¦

Mugwort
(Artemisia) These hardy, shrubby or herbaceous plants are from Asia, Europe and North America. They belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. Some Artemisias are grown for their ornamental or fragrant leaves and others, for their flowers. A. tridentata (Sage Brush) is a shrubby native of desert and semi-desert regions in the West. A. vulgaris (Common Mugwort) is a perennial, herbaceous kind that is often a pestiferous weed. A. Abrotanum (Southernwood, Lad's Love or Old Man) grows 2 to3 feet â€¦

Mulberry Tree
(Morus) These deciduous (leaf-losing) trees, commonly known as Mulberry trees, grow wild in North America and Asia. Mulberry trees can grow to good sizes, but when out in the open, usually develop a short, stout trunk and a thick, wide head of branches. Mulberry trees are long lived and often rejuvenate themselves even after falling to the ground because of decay. A dormant bud near the base of the old tree may germinate or a strong, young stem may sprout. Trees that have been blown down and havâ€¦

Mule Crippler
(Echinocactus) This group consists of six cacti native to Mexico and the southwestern U.S. These globular- to barrel-shaped plants (Hedgehog Cactus) vary in size from small plants only 41/2 inches wide to giants 3 feet wide and 61/2 feet high, weighing more than 2,200 pounds. These plants produce a ring of open-faced flowers on the plant's crown ranging in color from golden yellow to purplish-red. These cacti are suitable for growing in containers in a greenhouse or home and as landscape plants.â€¦

Mum
(Chrysanthemum) These hardy plants are natives of China, Japan, northern Africa, and southern Europe. They belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. Their flowers come in every color except blue. Their blooms come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes. Some are spherical in shape and have incurved petals at the center. Some have tubular-shaped petals of unequal length with little hooks at the end. Spoon Chrysanthemums have rather flat petals that are spoon-shaped at the end. Anemone Chrysanthemumsâ€¦

Murray River Pine
(Callitris) These are evergreen trees, native to Australia and Tasmania. Their branches are divided greatly and they have small leaves resembling scales. They can be planted outdoors in warm climates such as in Florida and southern California. In some ways, they are similar to the Cypress or Cupressus.â€¦

Copy of `Botany - Flower terms`

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