polemonium viscosum
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A hiker carefully avoids touching the sticky leaves of a Polemonium viscosum plant.
Definition
Noun: * A specific plant species: Polemonium viscosum is the scientific name for a species of flowering plant in the phlox family (Polemoniaceae). It is commonly known as "skunky polemonium" or "sticky Jacob's-ladder." The definition highlights its key identifying characteristics: it is a tall herb found in the Rocky Mountains, with sticky leaves and an unpleasant odor.
Usage Notes
- This is a proper noun referring to a specific biological entity. It is always written in italics in scientific contexts, with the genus name () capitalized and the species epithet () in lowercase.
- It is used primarily in botanical, ecological, and scientific writing. In everyday conversation, its common names ("skunky polemonium") are more likely to be used.
Examples of Usage
- Scientific Context:
- The study focused on the pollination ecology of Polemonium viscosum in alpine environments.
- A key identifier for Polemonium viscosum is the viscous secretion on its stems and leaves.
- Descriptive Context:
- While hiking above the treeline, we spotted the distinctive blue flowers of Polemonium viscosum.
Advanced Usage
- The species epithet "" is a Latin-derived term meaning "sticky" or "viscous," directly describing the plant's physical trait. Understanding the meaning of scientific names can aid in identification and memory.
Variants and Related Words
- Common Names: Skunky polemonium, Sticky Jacob's-ladder.
- Taxonomic Relatives: Genus (Jacob's-ladder), Species (Greek valerian), Species (showy Jacob's-ladder).
Synonyms
- Skunky polemonium (common name)
- Sticky Jacob's-ladder (common name)
(Note: As a unique scientific name, true synonyms are other accepted taxonomic names, which this species does not currently have. The listed terms are common names, not formal synonyms.)
A hiker carefully avoids touching the sticky leaves of a Polemonium viscosum plant.
Noun
- tall herb of the Rocky Mountains having sticky leaves and an offensive smell