Definition

1. Noun:
   • A specific plant species: "Our Lord's candle" is the common name for a species of yucca plant (Yucca whipplei) native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is characterized by a tall, dramatic spike of creamy white flowers.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The hiker was amazed by the sight of an Our Lord's candle in full bloom on the hillside.
  • Our Lord's candle is a striking feature of the chaparral landscape.

Advanced Usage

• Botanical context: The term is used specifically in botanical and horticultural descriptions, as well as in regional guides to native flora.
  • The field guide noted that Our Lord's candle flowers only once before dying.

Variants and Related Words

• Yucca whipplei (n): The scientific (Latin) name for the plant.
• Spanish bayonet (n): A common name for related yucca species, though not typically for itself.
• Chapral yucca (n): Another regional name for this plant.

Synonyms

• Whipple's yucca: A synonym derived from the plant's scientific name.
• Foothill yucca: A descriptive synonym referencing its common habitat.

Related Phrases

• In bloom: Used to describe the plant when its flower spike is visible.
  • The desert was spectacular with Our Lord's candle in bloom.

Noun

1. yucca of southwestern United States and Mexico with a tall spike of creamy white flowers