epiphyllum

[ ep-uh-fil-uhm ]

noun

1. any of several mostly epiphytic cacti of the genus Epiphyllum, native to tropical America, having large, fragrant white flowers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of epiphyllum¹

< New Latin, equivalent to Greek epi- epi- + Greek phýllon leaf; so called from the leaflike branches on which the flower grows

Example Sentences

Thus among cacti the leafless epiphyllum grows remarkably well upon the leaf-bearing pereskia.

From Project Gutenberg

The Epiphyllum, or Lobster Cactus, is one of the best of the family, easy of culture.

From Project Gutenberg

The similarity of its branches to Epiphyllum led to its being included in that genus by Haworth.

From Project Gutenberg

They are often called Epiphyllum, which name is, however, properly restricted to the group next to be mentioned.

From Project Gutenberg