swamp lily
swamp lily Lexical Profile
• noun
North American An aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial plant (Crinum americanum) of the amaryllis family, native to the southeastern United States, characterized by strap-like leaves and fragrant, spidery white flowers.
"While canoeing through the winding bayou, the botanist pointed out a beautiful cluster of swamp lilies blooming along the muddy bank."
Australian A robust, large-leafed perennial plant (Crinum pedunculatum) native to coastal and wetland regions of Australia, often used in landscaping for its architectural form and umbrella-like clusters of white flowers.
"The landscaper chose to plant an Australian swamp lily near the pond to provide a striking border that could tolerate the wet soil."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
A compound descriptive name reflecting the plant's typical habitat in waterlogged, marshy environments and its aesthetic resemblance to true lilies, despite belonging to the amaryllis family.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.