Definition

Noun 1. A genus of ferns: Genus Botrychium is the scientific name for a group of ferns commonly known as grape ferns or moonworts. These are small, perennial ferns characterized by a single, divided frond and a separate fertile stalk that bears clusters of spore cases, often resembling a bunch of grapes.

Usage Examples

• The rare fern was discovered in the shaded forest.
• Botanists are studying the life cycle of .
• This specimen belongs to the .

Advanced Usage

• In botanical taxonomy, the name is always italicized. The genus name () is capitalized, while the specific epithet (species name) is not: e.g., (Common Moonwort).
• The term is primarily used in scientific, academic, or specialized horticultural contexts rather than in everyday conversation.

Variants and Related Words

• Botrychium (n): The simplified, more common form used to refer to the genus in scientific discourse (e.g., "Several species are native to this region.").
• Grape fern (n): The common name for plants in this genus, referring to the grape-like clusters of sporangia.
• Moonwort (n): Another common name for plants in this genus, historically used for some species.

Synonyms

• Grape fern genus
• Moonwort genus

Related Terms (Contextual)

• Fern (n): The broader plant group to which this genus belongs.
• Ophioglossaceae (n): The botanical family that includes the genus .
• Pteridophyte (n): A vascular plant that reproduces via spores, such as ferns, including .

Noun

1. grape fern; moonwort