strelitzia
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. A small genus of flowering plants in the family Strelitziaceae, native to South Africa. The plants are large, perennial, evergreen herbs with leaves that resemble those of banana plants. They are widely cultivated for their distinctive and colorful bird-like flowers. 2. (Commonly) Any plant belonging to the genus Strelitzia, especially Strelitzia reginae, the bird of paradise flower.
Usage Examples
- Noun (referring to the genus):
- Strelitzia is a genus known for its striking floral structures.
- Botanists study the unique pollination mechanisms of strelitzia.
- Noun (referring to a specific plant):
- The vibrant orange and blue strelitzia in the conservatory is blooming.
- She received a beautiful bouquet featuring strelitzia.
- We planted a strelitzia in the garden for a tropical effect.
Advanced Usage
- Horticultural Context: The term is often used in botanical and gardening contexts to specify the plant genus, distinguishing it from other plants with similar common names (e.g., the Caesalpinia bird of paradise).
- For a true South African bird of paradise, you need a Strelitzia species.
Variants and Related Words
- Strelitziaceae (n): The plant family to which the genus belongs.
- Bird of paradise (flower/plant) (n): The common name for plants in the genus , particularly .
- Crane flower (n): Another common name for the .
Synonyms
- Bird of paradise (in common horticultural usage, though this name can refer to other plants).
Notes on Meaning
The primary meaning is botanical, referring to a specific genus of plants. In everyday language, "strelitzia" is most commonly used as a synonym for the bird of paradise flower itself, prized for its ornamental value. The reference to leaves resembling banana plants is a key identifying botanical characteristic.
Noun
- small genus of large perennial evergreen herbs having leaves resembling those of banana plants; sometimes placed in family Musaceae