homeria
homeria Lexical Profile
• noun
A cormous flowering plant of the iris family (Iridaceae), native to southern Africa and traditionally classified in the genus Homeria, noted for its bright star-shaped or cup-shaped flowers; commonly known as the Cape tulip.
"Farmers in Australia are warned to manage pastures carefully, as the introduced homeria is highly toxic to grazing livestock."
Word Nuance & Usage
While horticulturists still frequently use the name 'homeria', botanical taxonomists have largely reclassified this group of plants into the genus Moraea. It is also important to note its severe toxicity to livestock.
• Rhymes for homeria
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in 1804 by French botanist Étienne Pierre Ventenat. It is either named in honor of the ancient Greek poet Homer or derived from the Greek 'homerein' (to meet together), referring to the plant's fused stamens.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.