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Glite Dictionary
Echinocereus

Echinocereus

9.9
A type of small cactus with ribbed stems that grows in dry parts of Mexico and the southwestern United States
  • noun
  • /ˌɛkɪnoʊˈsɪəriəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Echinocereus
  • Botanists discovered a new species within the Echinocereus genus during their expedition in Mexico.
  • Echinocereus cactus

Examples

  • The Echinocereus thrives in arid climates and produces vibrant flowers in the spring.

  • He has an impressive collection of Echinocereus in his greenhouse, each with unique ribbed stems.

  • Look at that stunning Echinocereus flower!

  • The Echinocereus cactus blooms beautifully in the spring.

  • The Echinocereus cactus thrives in arid environments, boasting colorful blooms during the spring.

  • Many gardeners choose Echinocereus for their unique ribbed appearance and low maintenance needs.

  • Echinocereus species are often found in rocky soil, where they can absorb sunlight and moisture.

Surface Forms

Echinocereus singular
Echinocereus plural

Morphology

Echinocereus = Cereus (opaque) = echino + cereus

A taxonomic compound formed from classical combining forms; components are specialist and not transparently meaningful to an average B1 learner.

Etymology

Echinocereus comes from the Greek part echino- meaning 'hedgehog' or 'spiny' and the Latin word cereus meaning 'candle', an old name for cactus plants. So, Echinocereus can be remembered as a 'hedgehog cactus', which fits these low, ribbed, shrubby, spiny cacti.