Brazilian potato tree
- noun
:
árbol de papa brasileño
- The Brazilian potato tree is popular among gardeners in tropical climates for its vibrant purple flowers.
Examples
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The Brazilian potato tree thrives in well-drained soil and warm temperatures.
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Although it's called the Brazilian potato tree, it is not related to the common potato plant.
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The Brazilian potato tree thrives in warm climates.
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Many gardeners love the Brazilian potato tree for its unique appearance.
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The Brazilian potato tree produces beautiful flowers that attract butterflies to gardens.
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In tropical countries, the Brazilian potato tree is often grown for its ornamental value.
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Gardeners recommend the Brazilian potato tree for its adaptability to various soil types.
Synonyms
A South American shrub or small tree grown for its bright flowers in tropical gardens
A South American shrub or small tree grown for its flowers and leaves in tropical gardens, not a potato
A South American shrub not related to the edible potato that people grow for pretty purple flowers
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly compositional: a tree (or shrub) associated with Brazil and named in relation to the potato. A B1 learner who knows 'Brazilian', 'potato', and 'tree' can readily infer it refers to a Brazilian plant resembling or associated with potatoes; the specialized note that it is not a true potato does not prevent this basic, transparent inference.
Etymology
Brazilian potato tree may come from a simple picture: people in Brazil saw this shrub and thought parts of it looked like little potatoes, so they called it a potato tree. So, the name can be confusing: it is 'not a true potato' but a small tree or shrub often grown for its flowers.
