bridal-wreath
Noun: 1. A type of ornamental shrub: A deciduous shrub, specifically of the genus Spiraea, known for producing a dense and abundant display of small, white flowers in the spring. The flowers are typically arranged in clusters along the arching branches, creating a cascading, wreath-like effect. 2. A common name for specific shrubs: This name most frequently refers to Spiraea prunifolia or Spiraea × vanhouttei. It is also a common name for Francoa sonchifolia, a Chilean evergreen shrub with spikes of small white flowers.
- The garden's border was lined with bridal-wreath, its white blossoms looking like fresh snow in April.
- She cut several branches of bridal-wreath to create a centerpiece for the spring table.
- The arching stems of the bridal-wreath were heavy with clusters of tiny white flowers.
- In botanical contexts: The term is used to distinguish specific species from other members of the genus, emphasizing their characteristic flowering habit.
- The cultivar 'Plena' is a double-flowered form of the common bridal-wreath.
- Bridal wreath (noun): An alternative spelling, often written as two separate words.
- Spiraea / Spirea (noun): The genus name for this and related shrubs.
- May bush (noun): A regional common name for the same plant.
- Francoa (noun): The genus name for the Chilean plant also sometimes called bridal-wreath.
- Spiraea
- Spirea
- May bush
The primary meaning refers to the popular ornamental shrub (Spiraea). The secondary meaning, referencing the Chilean plant (Francoa), is less common in general horticultural use but is recognized in botanical references. The name evokes the plant's traditional use in wedding decorations due to its graceful, flower-laden branches.
- shrub having copious small white flowers in spring
- Chilean evergreen shrub having delicate spikes of small white flowers