NIGHTBLOOMING CEREUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Nightblooming cereus, also known as Epiphyllum oxypetalum, is a stunning and unique flowering plant native to Central and South America. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and is notable for its captivating nocturnal blooming patterns.
The nightblooming cereus is an epiphytic cactus that typically grows as a sprawling, climbing, or hanging plant. It possesses flat, broad, and leaf-like stems known as cladodes, which are succulent and photosynthetic. These elongated stems feature sharp thorns or bristles for protection. The plant usually forms dense clusters or cascades of these branches, creating a visually appealing and distinctive appearance.
The true magic of the nightblooming cereus lies in its extraordinary flowers. As the name suggests, these flowers only open at night, emitting a sweet and intoxicating fragrance. Each blossom measures around 15-30 centimeters in width, with delicate, pure white petals and numerous yellow stamens at its center. The flowers usually last for just one night, which adds to their allure.
This plant is highly revered for its rare and elusive blossoms, which symbolize transience and beauty. It often attracts pollinators such as moths and bats, which are enticed by its distinct fragrance and nocturnal blooming habits.
Nightblooming cereus has also found its place in traditional medicine and horticulture due to its beauty and potential healing properties. Some cultures believe that the plant possesses medicinal characteristics and use it to treat various ailments.
Overall, the nightblooming cereus is a mesmerizing flowering plant renowned for its alluring nocturnal flowers, making it a fascinating addition to any garden or collection of plants.
Etymology of NIGHTBLOOMING CEREUS
The word "nightblooming cereus" has the following etymology:
1. Night: The word "night" has Old English origins, derived from the Proto-Germanic word *nakhts. It can be traced further back to the Proto-Indo-European root *nekwt-, meaning "night".
2. Blooming: The term "blooming" comes from the Old English word "blōwan", meaning "to bloom" or "to flower". The word has Germanic origins and is related to the Middle Dutch word "bloeien" and the Old High German word "bluoen".
3. Cereus: The word "cereus" has Latin origins. It comes from the Latin word "cereus", meaning "waxen" or "waxy", which is derived from "cera", meaning "wax".
