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leadplant

leadplant

9.9
A low bush with grey divided leaves that grows in sandy soils
  • noun
  • /ˈlɛdˌplænt/
  • US
translation icon : planta de plomo
  • Some settlers believed the presence of leadplant indicated rich mineral deposits underground.

Examples

  • Botanists identified several leadplants during their survey of the western prairie.

  • The leadplant thrives in sandy soils.

  • The leadplant thrives in sandy soils along the riverbanks.

  • Many gardeners appreciate the leadplant for its unique appearance.

  • The leadplant is commonly found in sandy woodlands, where its unique leaves can thrive.

  • In the western United States, leadplant often grows near stream banks and is recognized by its distinctive flowers.

  • Many hikers admire the leadplant for its beautiful foliage during their trips through the natural habitats.

Synonyms

lead plant
vsleadplant
  • US
9.9

A shrub that grows on sandy river banks and is thought to show nearby lead

is written as a single word rather than two words
Amorpha canescens
vsleadplant
  • Specialized
9.9

A small shrub with gray leaves and small dull flowers that grows on sandy banks in western United States

is the common English name used instead of the Latin label

Surface Forms

leadplant singular
leadplants plural

Morphology

leadplant = lead + plant (opaque) = lead + plant

The components 'lead' and 'plant' are clear, but the specific meaning of a shrub indicating lead ore is not a standard derivation.

Etymology

Leadplant comes from the two simple parts lead and plant; early settlers saw this shrub near places where 'lead' metal was found and so called it a 'lead plant'. So the name helps you remember that the plant was thought to mark spots with lead in the ground.