Encyclo - Botany - Flower terms

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

Pittosporum
These are small trees or large shrubs that vary a great deal in their leaves and flowers. Some kinds have pretty foliage and others have very fragrant flowers. They are a common sight in the native vegetation of New Zealand and Australia, but some are found wild in China and other countries. Many kinds can be grown outside in the U.S. in mild areas. Some are perfect for growing in tubs or pots. A few kinds are good hedge plants, especially in seaside gardens. A few, such as, P. eugenioides, P. câ€¦

Plum
(Prunus) Prunus is the botanical name for a large group of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs. These popular plants are greatly valued for their delicious, edible fruits, gorgeous spring blossoms and some, for their colorful foliage; some varieties are grown for decoration alone, since all do not produce edible fruits. Numerous varieties have been developed from the wild forms; some were bred for maximum fruit production and better quality fruit while others were bred for larger and more aâ€¦

Plum Yew
(Cephalotaxus) This group consists of four evergreen shrubs or shrubby trees that are natives of the Himalayas and eastern Asia. Commonly known as Plum Yews, the female plants produce large, olive-like fruits that ripen in their second year. C. fortunei var. Prostrate Spreader is a low-growing shrub that spreads very widely. It grows up to 3 feet high and spreads as much as 15 feet. The branches of this Plum Yew are spirally covered in two opposite rows of slender, dark green, lanceolate leaves,â€¦

Plumbago
(Ceratostigma) This group consists of about eight tender, deciduous perennials and shrubs from eastern Africa and eastern Asia. These plants, commonly known as Plumbagoes, are grown for their attractive fall foliage and pretty, blue flowers. They are excellent for growing in the rock garden or flower border. C. griffithii is a low-growing, semi-evergreen plant with deep blue flowers and bright red, autumn foliage that persists well into the winter. After a harsh winter, this plant may not blossoâ€¦

Plumed Thistle
(Cirsium) This group of annuals, biennials, and perennials are natives in damp meadows in central and southwestern Europe and North America. Most of these plants, however, are weeds. The main kinds that are cultivated are as follows: C. Rivulare atropurpureum is a clump forming perennial that grows 4 feet or more high. Its leaves are narrow and deeply divided and produced mostly at the base. The small, dark crimson flowers resemble little thistles. They grow in small bunches atop long stems in mâ€¦

Plush Plant
(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€¦

Poa
(Kentucky Bluegrass, Rough-Stalked Meadow Grass, Wood Meadow Grass) This large group of Grasses is native to most of the temperate regions, including North America, the Himalayas, Europe and Siberia. Some are used to grow in pots and some are grown into lawns. The Wood Meadow Grass, P. nemoralis, the Rough-stalked Meadow Grass, P. trivialis, and the Kentucky Bluegrass, P. pratensis, are all used as lawn grasses. The Kentucky Bluegrass, however, is one of the most popular lawn grasses in our landâ€¦

Pocket Handkerchief Tree
(Davidia) This very attractive, deciduous tree is a native of China. This tree grows from 20 to 40 feet high with its branches spreading a distance to match. It is fairly hardy, living in areas where the temperature doesn't fall below -10Âº F. It produces 3- to 6-inch, heart-shaped, long-stalked leaves that are covered with white fuzz on their undersides. This tree is commonly known as Dove Tree because of its interesting flowers. In the spring, 1-inch, ball-shaped, clusters of flowers are producâ€¦

Pocketbook Plant
(Calceolarias) This huge group consists of shrubs and herbaceous (soft-stemmed) perennials. Several of these plants are popular greenhouse plants. They are natives of Chile and Peru. Calceolarias vary in height from 6 inches to 3 feet. The flowers are shaped like little slippers and are mostly yellow colored, except those belonging to the herbaceous type which show a wide variety of colors. Plants have been produced that bear flowers with rose, apricot, terra cotta, yellow and brown colors. Someâ€¦

Podophyllum
This small group of perennials (commonly called May Apples) is originally from North America, the Himalayas and western China. They grow from 12 to 18 inches high and have large, deeply lobed leaves on long, fleshy stems, which rise straight up from the soil. The name Podophyllum is taken from podos, a foot, and phyllon, a leaf, and refers to the resemblance of the leaves to a duck's foot. A drug known as podophyllin is made from the rhizomes of these plants. P. hexandrum has prettâ€¦

Poinsettia
(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€¦

Poke Sallet
(Phytolacca) This group consists of hardy and tender perennials. They are found wild in North and South America, Asia and Africa. Very few kinds are in cultivation. P. dioica, the Umbra, is a quick growing tree that is grown for decoration in mild climates. It is an evergreen and grows up to 60 feet high. It produces white flowers. P. americana, Pokeweed or Poke Sallet, is found wild from Maine to Florida and Mexico. It is so abundant around old barns and feedlotsthat is usually gathered from thâ€¦

Pokeweed
(Phytolacca) This group consists of hardy and tender perennials. They are found wild in North and South America, Asia and Africa. Very few kinds are in cultivation. P. dioica, the Umbra, is a quick growing tree that is grown for decoration in mild climates. It is an evergreen and grows up to 60 feet high. It produces white flowers. P. americana, Pokeweed or Poke Sallet, is found wild from Maine to Florida and Mexico. It is so abundant around old barns and feedlotsthat is usually gathered from thâ€¦

Polemonium
(Greek Ladder, Jacob's Ladder) This group of perennials and annuals are mostly natives to North America. They grow 1 to 2 feet in height and produce pretty flowers during the spring and summer. P. caeruleum, Jacob's Ladder or Greek Valerian, has medium to bright green leaves that are finely divided into 17 to 27 lance-shaped leaflets. In the summer, thin stems bearing dense, terminal clusters of small, cup-shaped, lavender blue flowers shoot up. This plant looks lovely in herbaceous borders and â€¦

Polka-Dot Plant
(Hypoestes) This group of frost-tender, shrubs and perennials are native to South Africa, Madagascar and southeast Asia. The few plants that are cultivated are grown mainly for their foliage. H. phyllostachya (Freckleface and Polka-Dot Plant) grows up to 30 inches high and wide. It is a bushy plant with dark green, oval, softly downy leaves covered with tiny pink speckles. Small, tubular, lavender flowers are produced intermittently.â€¦

Polygonatum
(Solomon's Seal) These perennials, commonly known as Solomon's Seal, are mainly natives to North America and various parts of Europe. P. hirtum grows up to 3 feet high with a 1-foot spread. Its lance- to oval-shaped, fresh green leaves are arranged alternately on the stems. The leaves, stems and leaf stalks are slightly fuzzy. In late spring, arching stems carrying drooping clusters of small, tubular flowers are produced. The flowers are white tipped with green. P. hybridum grows up to 4 feet hiâ€¦

Polypodium
(Coast Polypodium, Golden Polypodium, Leathery Polypodium, Licorice Fern, Oak-Leaved Fern, Polypody Fern) These are leaf-losing (deciduous) and hardy evergreen Ferns that are found in many parts of the world including tropical, semitropical and temperate areas. Some may be cultivated in hothouses and some in cool greenhouses. The bright green leaves are thin and tough and may vary from only a few inches to 6 feet long. They may be pinnate (feathery-divided once), bipinnate (divided twice), or siâ€¦

Polypody Fern
(Polypodium) These are leaf-losing (deciduous) and hardy evergreen Ferns that are found in many parts of the world including tropical, semitropical and temperate areas. Some may be cultivated in hothouses and some in cool greenhouses. The bright green leaves are thin and tough and may vary from only a few inches to 6 feet long. They may be pinnate (feathery-divided once), bipinnate (divided twice), or simple (undivided).â€¦

Polyscias
(Balfour Aralia, Coffee Tree, Fern-Leaf Aralia, Geranium Leaf Aralia, Ming Aralia, Wild Coffee) 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 (Mâ€¦

Polystichum
(Christmas Fern, Holly Fern, Shield Fern) These tender and hardy Ferns (Holly Ferns) are found in many parts of the world, especially in tropical America, North America, Europe, tropical Asia, Japan and South Africa. The fronds of these Ferns vary in length from 2 to 4 feet. P. aculeatum 'Pulcherrimum' has arching, evergreen or semi-evergreen, rigid fronds that are delicately cut into toothed segments. These feathery fronds are bright green maturing to dark green. P. setiferum 'Divisilobum' has â€¦

Pomo D'Oro
(Lycopersicon) Lycopersicon is the botanical name for the Tomato plant. The fruits of these plants are international favorites and there are more varieties sold of it than of any other vegetable. They may be eaten cooked or raw and are a good source of vitamins. The Tomato loves sunshine and is grown as a warm-weather annual, although it is actually a tender perennial. It is grown in greenhouses where summers are too cool for pollination and fruit to set in gardens. The garden varieties of Tomatâ€¦

Pondweed
(Potamogeton) These hardy, aquatic perennials are natives of Europe and are naturalized in the ponds, rivers, lakes and streams across the northeastern and north central parts of the U.S. P. crispus is an attractive plant that grows submerged beneath the water. Commonly known as the Curled Pondweed, the stems of this plant can grow13 feet long or more. They are covered in slender, sessile leaves about 3 inches in length. The pretty, wavy-edged leaves are nearly translucent and vary in color fromâ€¦

Pontederia
(Pickerel Weed) These hardy, aquatic perennials are natives of North America. P. cordata, Pickerel Weed, has a creeping rhizome and erect, glossy, dark green leaves that are slightly heart-shaped. In the summer, racemes of violet-blue, funnel-shaped flowers are produced. This variety grows from 18 to 24 inches high. P. lanceolata has narrower leaves and grows 4 to 5 feet in height. It is a native of the southeastern U.S. and is therefore not as hardy as P. cordata. Its varieties Angustifolâ€¦

Pony Tail
(Beaucarnea) This is a tender, evergreen plant grown for its ornamental leaves. It grows wild in Mexico. Its leaves are long and slender and resemble those of the Dracaena. The main kind, B. recurvata, variety glauca, has blue-gray leaves.â€¦

Poor-Man'S Orchid
(Schizanthus) These annuals are found wild in Chile. They form neat clumps, 15 to 30 inches tall. Their leaves grow mostly toward the base and are pinnately cut and divided, growing up to 6 inches long. The flowers are shallow cups, up to 2 inches across. They may be white, pink, violet, lilac, or purplish and are often bicolored. They grow better outdoors in cooler weather. Seasons include from late winter to spring in mild climates, late spring to early summer in warm, temperate climates and sâ€¦

Popcorn
(Zea) This is a very popular vegetable known as Corn. Corn is actually a tall annual grass and all kinds, including the three described below, are varieties of a single species, Zea mays. Corn has been a valuable food at least since the Incas cultivated it.â€¦

Popcorn Tree
(Sapium) This deciduous, tropical tree is a native of Japan and China. S. sebiferum, commonly known as the Chinese Tallow Tree, Popcorn Tree and Vegetable Tallow, is a quick growing tree that is naturalized and widely grown for ornament and shade in tropical climates. The Chinese Tallow Tree grows 35 to 40 feet high. It is clothed with glossy light green, oval, pointy-tipped leaves that tremble in the breeze. They grow from 1 to 3 inches in length and are quite pest-free. The foliage turns dark â€¦

Poplar
(Populus) Populus is a large group of deciduous (leaf-losing) trees that can attain great heights. These trees, commonly known as Aspen, Poplar and Cottonwood trees, are found in Europe, Asia and North America. Some are found wild in other regions, one being a native of tropical Africa. It is difficult to say how many wild kinds there are, because these trees hybridize very easily. Some of the Poplars are very pretty in bloom, especially the male forms, which may also have reddish leaves when thâ€¦

Poppy
(Papaver) These hardy perennial, annual and biennial plants are native of eastern Asia, North America and Europe. They are commonly known as Poppies. Their foliage is mostly basal; the leaves are coarsely toothed and grow up to 6 inches long. Their height ranges from 1 to 4 feet and they produce pretty single or double flowers atop long, thin stems. The flowers have glistening petals and they grow from 2 to 6 inches across. They come in all colors except blue. P. nudicaule, the Iceland Poppy, coâ€¦

Populus
(Abele, Aspen, Balm-Of-Gilead, Cottonwood, Poplar, Tacamahac) Populus is a large group of deciduous (leaf-losing) trees that can attain great heights. These trees, commonly known as Aspen, Poplar and Cottonwood trees, are found in Europe, Asia and North America. Some are found wild in other regions, one being a native of tropical Africa. It is difficult to say how many wild kinds there are, because these trees hybridize very easily. Some of the Poplars are very pretty in bloom, especially the maâ€¦

Porcupine Hedgehog
(Echinocereus) This group consists of about fifty cacti from the southern U.S. and Mexico. These pretty cacti come in a wide range of shapes and colors. Some species form round, spiny mounds and are commonly called Hedgehog Cacti, while others develop thin, rambling stems. The flower buds of these succulents form inside the stems, bursting out near the stem tips in late spring and early summer. The flowers open completely in full sun and come in an array of colors such as yellow, orange, red, piâ€¦

Port Macquarie 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€¦

Portulaca
(Purslane, Pusley, Sun Plant, Verdolaga) Portulaca is a small group of trailing annuals. P. grandiflora, Sun Plant, is a popular kind native of Brazil. The sprawling stems grow 4 or 5 inches long and are clothed with somewhat succulent, cylindrical leaves. Several large flowers, up to an inch in diameter, grow at the ends of the stems. They come in an array of bright, beautiful colors; purple, scarlet, yellow and pink are just a few. There are both single- and double-flowered varieties. P. oleraâ€¦

Portulacaria
(Elephant Bush) This is a succulent bush with thick, gray or brownish stems and fat, tender, bright green leaves that are very small. It can grow 12-20 feet tall. Its pale pink flowers grow in little clusters. Even when small, this plant makes a handsome foliage plant.â€¦

Pot
(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€¦

Potamogeton
(Curled Pondweed, Pondweed) These hardy, aquatic perennials are natives of Europe and are naturalized in the ponds, rivers, lakes and streams across the northeastern and north central parts of the U.S. P. crispus is an attractive plant that grows submerged beneath the water. Commonly known as the Curled Pondweed, the stems of this plant can grow13 feet long or more. They are covered in slender, sessile leaves about 3 inches in length. The pretty, wavy-edged leaves are nearly translucent and varyâ€¦

Potato
(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€¦

Potentilla
(Cinquefoil) Potentilla (Cinquefoil) is the botanical name for a group of hardy perennials and shrubs originally found in North America, the European mountains and northern Asia. These plants vary in height from 8 inches to 2 feet. They have pretty foliage and a bunch of saucer-shaped flowers. There are tall kinds suitable for planting in borders and dwarf varieties, which are excellent for the rock garden. P. nepalensis 'Miss Willlmott' forms clumps of green leaves palmately divided into 5 tootâ€¦

Poterium
(Burnet) Burnet is a hardy perennial that will grow about 12 inches high. It has many elegantly arching stems covered with small, toothed, opposite leaflets. The small, pink tufts of flowers aren't noticeable. Burnet is usually used as an edging in gardens or planted in groups in containers. It can be used in salads and to make a cucumber-flavored vinegar.â€¦

Pothos Ivy
(Scindapsus) This small group consists of twenty tropical, climbing plants native to Southeast Asia. These plants are valued for their large, attractively variegated leaves, which may be heart-shaped or ovate. These plants, commonly known as Amapallo Amarillo, Devil's Ivy, Hunter's Robe, Ivy Arum, Pothos Ivy, and Taro Vine, also produce arum-like flowers with greenish-colored spathes. These plants are excellent for growing in a hanging basket, training up a moss pole or wall, or for draping overâ€¦

Powder Puff Cactus
(Mammillaria) This group consists of about 250 species of cacti that are natives of Mexico, Columbia, Guatemala, Honduras, the southern US, Venezuela, and the West Indies. They range from small plants, Â¾-inch in size to huge clusters over 3 feet across. They have cylindrical or globular shapes, which may clump or remain solitary. The tubercles are spirally arranged along the body and from these grow many spines. The spines come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes and really add to the plantâ€¦

Powdery Thalia
(Thalia) These are beautiful, hardy and tender, aquatic perennials. The long-stalked leaves grow directly from the ground and they produce branching spikes of flowers in the summer. T. dealbata, the Powdery Thalia, is a hardy kind found growing wild from South Carolina to Florida to Texas. In can be grown outdoors throughout the year except for in very cold climates; it should then be wintered doors. The Powdery Thalia can grow up to 6 feet high. It produces handsome, ovate to lance-shaped, blueâ€¦

Prattling Parnell
(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€¦

Prayer Plant
(Maranta) These frost tender perennials are native to tropical America and are grown for their beautiful foliage. They can be grown outside in frost-free climates only. Their leaves rise straight out of the soil and vary in size and shape. They are often marked with streaks or blotches of contrasting colors. M. leuconeura variety erythroneura (Herringbone Plant) has oblong, velvety, black green leaves veined with red and having a lime-green midrib area. This plant will produce erect spikes of smâ€¦

Prickly Pear
(Opuntia) Opuntia is the largest group of Cacti with over 360 species ranging from Canada to Chile and Argentina. This group also includes several edible kinds. These plants are commonly known as Bunny Ears, Cholla, Prickly Pear, Barbary Fig, Tuna and Indian Fig. Opuntia is usually separated into two groups. The first group is Platyopuntia; those belonging to this group have round flattened joints, called pads. They are commonly known as Prickly Pears because they produce the spiny, usually edibâ€¦

Prickly Water Lily
(Euryale) This aquatic perennial is a native of India and China. E. ferox, commonly known as the Prickly Water Lily or Gorgon Plant, is a floating plant with large (4 to 5 feet across), deeply veined, flat leaves. It produces cup-shaped flowers consisting of 23 or 24 petals. They are deep violet with an outer row of white petals. Sharp spines cover the surface of the sepals and stems and also both sides of the leaves. Although perennial in tropical climates, it is usually grown as an annual in câ€¦

Pride Of India
(Melia) 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 foot wide and contain numerous 1- to 3-inch leaflets. In the spring, 5- to 8-incâ€¦

Priest'S Crown
(Taraxacum) T. officinale is the common and sometimes pesky, perennial weed in northern yards known as the Dandelion. The Dandelion (Also known as Swine's Snout, Priest's Crown and Telltime.) develops a deep, thick taproot from which a rosette of long, narrow, serrated, shiny dark green or brownish leaves arise. The hollow flower stalks grow directly from the root and each leafless stalk produces a single, golden yellow blossom, which produces an abundance of pollen and nectar. When the flower hâ€¦

Primrose
(Primula) This is a large group of plants commonly known as the Primrose. They are mostly hardy perennial herbs and are natives of Europe and temperate Asia, Java and North America. Only one kind, P. magellanica, is found south of the Equator, in southern South America. Some Primroses, such as P. vulgaris, the English Primrose, bear their flowers singly on stems that rise straight from the base of the plant. Others, such as P. denticulata, P. obconica and P. elatior, produce their clusters of flâ€¦

Primrose Creeper
(Ludwigia) These tropical, aquatic plants are found wild in South America. L. palustris, the Primrose Creeper, carpets the edges of ponds with creeping or floating, branching stems, which grow up to a foot high, covered with glossy, oval leaves, which grow up to an inch in length. The leaves are light green on top and creamy green beneath. The foliage that grows above the water may be darker green tinted with red. It produces cup-shaped, yellow flowers. This plant is extremely invasive. L. longâ€¦

Primrose Willow
(Ludwigia) These tropical, aquatic plants are found wild in South America. L. palustris, the Primrose Creeper, carpets the edges of ponds with creeping or floating, branching stems, which grow up to a foot high, covered with glossy, oval leaves, which grow up to an inch in length. The leaves are light green on top and creamy green beneath. The foliage that grows above the water may be darker green tinted with red. It produces cup-shaped, yellow flowers. This plant is extremely invasive. L. longâ€¦

Primula
(Primrose) This is a large group of plants commonly known as the Primrose. They are mostly hardy perennial herbs and are natives of Europe and temperate Asia, Java and North America. Only one kind, P. magellanica, is found south of the Equator, in southern South America. Some Primroses, such as P. vulgaris, the English Primrose, bear their flowers singly on stems that rise straight from the base of the plant. Others, such as P. denticulata, P. obconica and P. elatior, produce their clusters of fâ€¦

Prince'S Feather
(Amaranthus) These are tender annuals that are natives of India, the Philippines and other warm countries. They are erect-growing plants; their height ranges from 2 to 8 feet high. Their leaves are long or oval, from 2 to 4 inches long and they start out green or dark red and change to bright yellow, orange or florescent pink at the tops. They produce pretty tassels of flowers that may be wine red or chartreuse. The flowers last a long time. Those with colorful leaves don't produce as lovely floâ€¦

Prince'S-Feather
(Amaranthus) These are tender annuals that are natives of India, the Philippines and other warm countries. They are erect-growing plants; their height ranges from 2 to 8 feet high. Their leaves are long or oval, from 2 to 4 inches long and they start out green or dark red and change to bright yellow, orange or florescent pink at the tops. They produce pretty tassels of flowers that may be wine red or chartreuse. The flowers last a long time. Those with colorful leaves don't produce as lovely floâ€¦

Princess Pea
(Psophocarpus) These tender perennials have several common names, Winged Bean, Goa Bean, Four-angled Bean and Princess Pea. These plants come from the Old World tropics and are taller and more massive than Snap Beans. Their foliage is similar, but darker and they bear loose sprays of reddish-brown or white flowers, which are followed by interesting pods that grow up to 9 inches long. Each pod has 4 fluted wings along its length. The skin is waxy and the flesh partially translucent in the young pâ€¦

Prism Cactus
(Leuchtenbergia) There is only one species in this group. L. principis (Agave Cactus; Prism Cactus) is a very slow-growing cactus from Mexico. This plant has a large, tuberous taproot and a cylindrical shaped stem that becomes bare and corky at the base with age. It has long, slender, grayish-green tubercles, which look like a rosette of leaves. The tubercles have puplish-red blotches at their tips and are topped with papery spines giving it the appearance of a miniature Agave, thus the common nâ€¦

Propeller 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€¦

Prosopis
(Algaroba, Cashaw, Mesquite) 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 avâ€¦

Proteaceae
(Adenanthos) A genus of some 30 specises (Shrubs ) , confined to south western, Australiaâ€¦

Prunus
(Almond, Apricot, Cherry, Nectarine, Peach, Plum) Prunus is the botanical name for a large group of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs. These popular plants are greatly valued for their delicious, edible fruits, gorgeous spring blossoms and some, for their colorful foliage; some varieties are grown for decoration alone, since all do not produce edible fruits. Numerous varieties have been developed from the wild forms; some were bred for maximum fruit production and better quality fruit whiâ€¦

Pseudosasa
(Bamboo) This Bamboo is native to eastern Asia. It grows up to 15 feet high and has shiny green leaves with grayish-blue undersides. This is a fairly hardy Bamboo, being able to survive in sheltered areas as far north as southern New York. Bamboos need moist soil at all times, especially during periods of dry weather. They are great for growing near riverbanks and streamsides as long as it is not swampy and stagnant soil.â€¦

Psilotum
(Skeleton Fork Fern) These are frost-tender, subtropical or tropical, terrestrial or epiphytic (grows on a host, such as a tree, to obtain nutrients, but isn't a parasite) Ferns grown for their interesting skeletal or broom-like fronds. P. nudum, commonly known as Skeleton Fork Fern, grows 2 feet high with a spread of 18 inches. If terrestrial, this Fern's growth is branched and erect; if epiphytic, its growth will be pendulous. The tiny, triangular leaves grow on triangular, branching stems. Thâ€¦

Psophocarpus
(Four-Angled Bean, Goa Bean, Princess Pea, Winged Bean) These tender perennials have several common names, Winged Bean, Goa Bean, Four-angled Bean and Princess Pea. These plants come from the Old World tropics and are taller and more massive than Snap Beans. Their foliage is similar, but darker and they bear loose sprays of reddish-brown or white flowers, which are followed by interesting pods that grow up to 9 inches long. Each pod has 4 fluted wings along its length. The skin is waxy and the fâ€¦

Pteris
(Cretan Brake) This is a large group of Ferns that can be grown in greenhouses, hothouses, and homes. There are hardy kinds that lose their leaves (deciduous) and kinds that are evergreen. They are found wild in many parts of the world, such as tropical America, tropical Asia, India, China, Japan, West Indies, southern Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Europe. Pteris vary greatly in their sizes and shapes. Some are a few inches tall and some are several feet tall. Most kinds have fronds that arâ€¦

Pterostyrax
(Epaulette Tree, Wisteria Tree) The deciduous trees or large shrubs are native to China and Japan. P. hispida, commonly known as the Epaulette Tree or Wisteria Tree, can be grown as a bush with a height of up to 12 feet or a tree, growing up to 50 feet high. The Epaulette Tree is covered in oblong leaves up to 8 inches in length. These trees begin to blossom when they are 8 to 10 feet high. In early summer, fragrant, creamy white flowers are borne in suspended clusters 4 to 9 inches long. These â€¦

Pu-Tin-Choi
(Basella) B. alba is known by many common names. These are Malabar Spinach, Indian Spinach, Malabar Nightshade, Pasali and Pu-tin-choi. Malabar Spinach is one of the best hot-weather greens for cooking. This plant is a regular food item in tropical Africa and southeast Asia, where it originated. Its glutinous texture when cooked takes some getting use to, but the strong flavor is pleasant. These plants are low growing and send out runners, which are clothed with good sized, tasty, thick, dark grâ€¦

Pulmonaria
This group of hardy perennials, commonly known as Lungwort and Blue Cowslip, are found wild in Europe. These plants grow from 9 to 12 inches high and are great for shady locations where other plants can't survive. The name Pulmonaria is derived from pulmo, a lung, because the foliage is said to aid in the treatment of lung diseases. P. officinalis 'Sissinghurst White' is a pretty plant with semi-evergreen, long, elliptic, medium green leaves spotted with a lighter color. In the spring, teâ€¦

Pumpkin
(Cucurbita) This is a group of popular, annual climbing or trailing plants that belong to the Cucumber family, Cucurbitaceae.â€¦

Purple Osier
(Salix) Salix is the botanical name for a group of deciduous (leaf-losing) trees and shrubs, which are mostly hardy. They are found wild throughout Europe, northern Africa, Asia, and North America; a few are found in the Southern Hemisphere. Some grow naturally in the arctic and alpine regions. The common name for this group and also the old Latin name is, Willow. Most Willows grow rapidly and are fairly short-lived. Their young stems are flexible and strong, but the old braâ€¦

Purple Passion Plant
(Gynura) These tropical plants are natives of Indonesia. They belong to the Daisy family, Compositae and will grow 2-3 feet high. G. aurantiaca produces velvety leaves covered with purple hairs and orange flowers, which resemble little shaving brushes. G. bicolor's leaves are gray-purple above and rich purple underneath.â€¦

Purple Rose Tree
(Aeonium) This group mostly consists of quick-growing, small to medium-sized succulents that form rosettes of waxy leaves. These succulents may be stem-less or shrub-like. Natives of the Canary Islands, Cape Verde Islands, Madeira and parts of Africa, they thrive best in warm, dry climates. Since they grow well in direct sunlight, they are good for window gardens, though some prefer shade. Mature plants range in height from 1Â½ to 6 feet. The foliage varies among the varieties; some are colored dâ€¦

Purslane
(Portulaca) Portulaca is a small group of trailing annuals. P. grandiflora, Sun Plant, is a popular kind native of Brazil. The sprawling stems grow 4 or 5 inches long and are clothed with somewhat succulent, cylindrical leaves. Several large flowers, up to an inch in diameter, grow at the ends of the stems. They come in an array of bright, beautiful colors; purple, scarlet, yellow and pink are just a few. There are both single- and double-flowered varieties. P. oleracea, the common Purslane, canâ€¦

Pusley
(Portulaca) Portulaca is a small group of trailing annuals. P. grandiflora, Sun Plant, is a popular kind native of Brazil. The sprawling stems grow 4 or 5 inches long and are clothed with somewhat succulent, cylindrical leaves. Several large flowers, up to an inch in diameter, grow at the ends of the stems. They come in an array of bright, beautiful colors; purple, scarlet, yellow and pink are just a few. There are both single- and double-flowered varieties. P. oleracea, the common Purslane, canâ€¦

Pussy Ears
(Cyanotis) The origin of this creeping, tender perennial is uncertain, but it is probably Somalia. Its fleshy, narrowly oblong leaves are glossy dark green and covered with soft white hairs. It produces small, 3-petaled, purple or blue flowers in the axils of the leaves in the winter and spring. Cyanotis, also called Pussy Ears, grows about 2 inches high and will spread continuously.â€¦

Pussy Willow
(Salix) Salix is the botanical name for a group of deciduous (leaf-losing) trees and shrubs, which are mostly hardy. They are found wild throughout Europe, northern Africa, Asia, and North America; a few are found in the Southern Hemisphere. Some grow naturally in the arctic and alpine regions. The common name for this group and also the old Latin name is, Willow. Most Willows grow rapidly and are fairly short-lived. Their young stems are flexible and strong, but the old braâ€¦

Pygmy Papyrus
(Cyperus) These tender, aquatic perennials are grown for their decorative foliage. They are natives of Palestine, Brazil, S. Africa, Europe and North America. C. alternifolius (Umbrella Plant; Nile Grass) produces clumps of long stems, 1 to 3 feet normally, but up to 5 feet in excellent conditions; these are crowned with long, slender, radiating, dark green leaves like an umbrella, thus the common name. Its variety, variegatus, has green and white leaves. Small, brown or green, fuzzy flowers areâ€¦

Pyrus
(Pear) Pyrus is the botanical name for a popular group of deciduous trees and shrubs greatly valued for their beauty and their delicious fruit, known as Pears. Pears can be grown throughout the Temperate regions where winters are not too severe and there is adequate moisture. Pears will not survive where temperatures fall lower than -20Âº F. They are widely cultivated for commerce in California, Washington, Oregon and in places near the Great Lakes. Other regions that grow Pears include New York â€¦

Queen Anne'S Lace
(Daucus) This plant is cultivated for its enlarged, edible root and is commonly known as the Carrot. The original species, from which the Carrot was developed, came from Europe and is known as Queen Anne's Lace. Their foliage is fine and lacy and the roots vary in size and shape; they are usually orange-red or yellow. Their flowers, which are small and white, don't grow until the year following that in which the seeds were sown. Carrots provide carotene, which becomes Vitamin A when absorbed by â€¦

Queen Palm
(Arecastrum) This Palm is a native of Brazil and has graceful, plumy leaves. This tree can grow over 30 feet outside. It's commonly planted outdoors in southern Florida and southern California. They are attractive when used as street trees, but they aren't very long-lived. Arecastrums should be planted where there isn't high winds because their leafstalks can kink or bend and take away from the beauty of their leaves. In unfavorable climates it can be grown inside in pots or tubs. A. Romanzoffiaâ€¦

Queen Victoria'S Water Lily
(Victoria) This group of tender, aquatic annuals is originally from tropical America. They are amazing, floating plants with some varieties producing leaves that grow up to 8 feet across. They are commonly called Queen Victoria's Water Lily, Royal Water Lily, Amazon Water Lily and Santa Cruz Water Lily. V. amazonica (Amazon Water Lily) has yellowish-green, round leaves with reddish-purple undersides that start out flat, but in time form a rim, 3 to 6 inches high. The underside of the leaves and â€¦

Quercus
(Oak Tree) This is a large group of evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs that are found wild throughout Europe, Asia, northern Africa, and North and South America. Some require tropical or sub-tropical conditions to survive, while the majority are hardy in the North. The Oaks are varied in their appearance; it is hard to believe that some kinds can be classified with the same species. They do, however, have one characteristic in common, which is the fact that their seeds are carried in littlâ€¦

Quince
(Cydonia) This group consists of one deciduous species that is grown for its delicious fruits. Commonly known as Quince, this tree is related to the handsome Flowering Quinces, Chaenomeles, which are mainly grown for their beautiful blossoms though the fruits are also edible. (Go See) C. oblonga (Common Quince) is a small tree originally found from Iran to Turkestan. This tree is just about as hardy as the Peach, surviving temperatures as low as 0Âº F. Its branches will most likely die bacâ€¦

Quinoa
(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€¦

Rabbit Tracks
(Maranta) These frost tender perennials are native to tropical America and are grown for their beautiful foliage. They can be grown outside in frost-free climates only. Their leaves rise straight out of the soil and vary in size and shape. They are often marked with streaks or blotches of contrasting colors. M. leuconeura variety erythroneura (Herringbone Plant) has oblong, velvety, black green leaves veined with red and having a lime-green midrib area. This plant will produce erect spikes of smâ€¦

Radish
(Raphanus) Raphanus is the botanical name for the Radish. There are two different types of Radishes; the spring Radish, which is commonly used in salads, and the Oriental or winter Radish, which isn't as well known, but is becoming more popular.â€¦

Ragged Robin
(Lychnis) This group of perennials, annuals and biennials are found wild in the North Temperate and Arctic zones. These plants are grown for their pretty flowers. The height ranges from 1 to 4 feet among the different varieties. L. viscaria, the Alpine Catchfly, is an erect growing perennial found on dry, rocky hills and cliffs from Europe to western Asia. The green, oval- to lance-shaped leaves are sticky-hairy beneath. In early summer, a profusion of small, sticky, star-shaped flowers are bornâ€¦

Ragwort
(Senecio) This is a large group of hardy and tender annuals and perennials that may have shrubby, herbaceous, or climbing growth. Senecios are found wild in almost every country, especially in southern Europe; others are found in South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, China, Japan, the United States and Mexico. They vary in size and shape, particularly their foliage, but almost all have yellow or purple flowers, which resemble daisies and grow up to 3 inches across. They grow in thick trusses oveâ€¦

Rainbow Cactus
(Echinocereus) This group consists of about fifty cacti from the southern U.S. and Mexico. These pretty cacti come in a wide range of shapes and colors. Some species form round, spiny mounds and are commonly called Hedgehog Cacti, while others develop thin, rambling stems. The flower buds of these succulents form inside the stems, bursting out near the stem tips in late spring and early summer. The flowers open completely in full sun and come in an array of colors such as yellow, orange, red, piâ€¦

Ramp
(Allium) These hardy bulbs grow wild in many parts of the world. Many of the varieties are commonly known vegetables such as the Chives, Garlic, Leek, Onion, Ramp and Shallot. Many kinds are grown for their pretty clusters of flowers, which come in an array of colors during the spring and summer. Some of the smaller kinds are great for the rock garden and some in the flower border. A. Rosenbachianum is one of the prettiest grown for its flowers. It produces rose-purple flowers on 2Â½- to 3-foot sâ€¦

Ranunculus
This is a group of hardy and tender perennials and annuals, commonly known as Buttercups. These plants were originally found in northern England and from Europe to North Africa and West Asia. These plants are suitable for borders, wildflower gardens and stream- and watersides. R. aconitifolius 'Flore Pleno' (Fair-Maids-of-France/Kent) is a very pretty plant that grows 24 to 30 inches high. Its dark green leaves are deeply divided into 3 to 5 lobes. The small, double, pure white flowers areâ€¦

Raphanus
(Daikon, Radish, Raphanus) Raphanus is the botanical name for the Radish. There are two different types of Radishes; the spring Radish, which is commonly used in salads, and the Oriental or winter Radish, which isn't as well known, but is becoming more popular.â€¦

Raspberry
(Rubus) Rubus belongs to the Rose family. This group consists of erect, arching or trailing, deciduous and evergreen shrubs found wild in Europe, North America and Asia. Some are very ornamental, while most are grown for their edible fruits. Of the varieties, the most popular are R. idaeus vulgatus, commonly known as the European Raspberry, R. idaeus var. strigosus, the American Raspberry, R. occidentalis, the Black Raspberry, Blackcap, or Thimbleberry, and the Raspberry's cousin, the Blackberryâ€¦

Rat'S Tail Cactus
(Aporocactus) This group of epiphytic cacti is native to Mexico. Growing on trees and in rocky crevices in their native habitats, these cacti are excellent for growing in hanging baskets. Commonly known as Rat's Tail Cactus, they consist of long, pendulous, slender stems that are clothed with small tufts of reddish-brown, bristly spines. The stems can reach several feet in length. Rat's Tail Cacti bear tons of vividly colored blossoms in early spring. The flowers are produced on the previous yeaâ€¦

Ratama
(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€¦

Red Bay
(Persea) These small trees are mostly natives of South and Central America, but are also found in the Canary Islands and in southeast Asia. P. Borbonia (the Bull Bay or Red Bay) is a native of the United States from Delaware to Florida and is sometimes planted for ornament. P. palustris is found from North Carolina to Florida and Texas. The species of Persea grown for ornament will grow easily in any type of soil. They have large, leathery leaves, but if grown indoors, their leaves are much thinâ€¦

Red Cedar
(Juniperus) This group consists of evergreen shrubs and trees that are found wild throughout Europe, North America, Asia, the West Indies, Canary Islands, and eastern Africa. Some are hardy, some are small enough for the rock garden, some are good foundation plants, and some grow into trees of medium size. Junipers, as they are commonly called, are divided into two categories based on the kind of leaves they produce. The mature trees either have scale-like, leaves closely pressed against the braâ€¦

Red Haw
(Crataegus) This is a large group of hardy, deciduous trees and a few shrubs that are commonly known as Hawthorns or Thorns; other common names will be mentioned by its tree. Most of the Hawthorns are natives of North America; others are natives of Europe, Asia Minor, China, Japan, the Old World and the Himalayas. Hawthorns are beautiful, flowering trees suitable for shading patios, decorating lawns and lining streets. These hard-wooded trees can be grown in exposed locations as well as tolerateâ€¦

Red-Ink Plant
(Phytolacca) This group consists of hardy and tender perennials. They are found wild in North and South America, Asia and Africa. Very few kinds are in cultivation. P. dioica, the Umbra, is a quick growing tree that is grown for decoration in mild climates. It is an evergreen and grows up to 60 feet high. It produces white flowers. P. americana, Pokeweed or Poke Sallet, is found wild from Maine to Florida and Mexico. It is so abundant around old barns and feedlotsthat is usually gathered from thâ€¦

Red-Stemmed Thalia
(Thalia) These are beautiful, hardy and tender, aquatic perennials. The long-stalked leaves grow directly from the ground and they produce branching spikes of flowers in the summer. T. dealbata, the Powdery Thalia, is a hardy kind found growing wild from South Carolina to Florida to Texas. In can be grown outdoors throughout the year except for in very cold climates; it should then be wintered doors. The Powdery Thalia can grow up to 6 feet high. It produces handsome, ovate to lance-shaped, blueâ€¦

Redbud
(Cercis) This group of beautiful, deciduous trees or shrubs grows wild in North America and from southern Europe to eastern Asia. These plants are commonly known as Redbuds because, in early spring before their leaves open, their branches are covered with an abundance of purplish-pink flowers. Redbud Trees bear flowers at 4 or 5 years of age. In late spring, 3- to 5-inch, glossy green, heart-shaped leaves are produced; these turn yellow in autumn, before falling off. C. canadensis is a smaâ€¦

Copy of `Botany - Flower terms`

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