Definition

Adjective: - Describing plants that grow to a considerable height, often with stems that are notably long, slender, and sometimes appearing weak or lacking in sturdiness. The term emphasizes vertical growth and a spindly physical form.

Usage

This adjective is used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb like 'is' or 'are') to describe the specific growth habit of a plant. It is a descriptive term often found in botanical, gardening, or agricultural contexts.

Examples

• The tall-growing sunflowers blocked the view of the garden fence.
• That species of bamboo is particularly tall-growing.
• We need to provide stakes for the tall-growing tomatoes to prevent them from falling over.
• These weeds are tall-growing and can quickly overtake other plants.

Advanced Usage

• The term can imply a need for structural support, as tall-growing plants are often prone to bending or breaking.
• It can be used in comparative forms: "This hybrid is more tall-growing than the original variety."

Variants and Related Words

• Tall: (Adjective) Of great or more than average height. A more general term.
• Spindly: (Adjective) Long or tall and thin, often appearing frail. This word is closely related to the characteristic implied by "tall-growing."
• Leggy: (Adjective, informal) Used especially of plants having abnormally long, thin stems, often due to insufficient light. This is a near-synonym with a more specific cause.

Synonyms

• Lanky (when describing plants)
• Spindly
• Leggy

Antonyms

• Dwarf (describing plants of intentionally small stature)
• Low-growing
• Compact (describing plants with dense, short growth)

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Fast-growing: Often used in conjunction with "tall-growing" (e.g., "a fast-growing, tall-growing vine").
• Climbing plant: While not a synonym, many climbing plants are also tall-growing.

Adjective

1. (of plants) having tall spindly stems