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

The epiphyllum, or lobster cactus, or crab cactus, is one of the best of the family, easy of culture.

From Project Gutenberg