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Glite Dictionary
love-lies-bleeding

love-lies-bleeding

9.9
A tall plant from warm countries with long hanging red flowers whose leaves are eaten and seeds used like grain
  • noun
  • /ˈlʌv laɪz ˈbliːdɪŋ/
translation icon : amor que sangra
  • Many traditional dishes in South America use the leaves of love-lies-bleeding as a nutritious green.

Examples

  • The love-lies-bleeding in her garden added a splash of dramatic color with its cascading red flowers.

  • The love-lies-bleeding plant adds vibrant color to the garden.

  • Farmers are beginning to appreciate love-lies-bleeding for its hardy seeds, which can be used as a cereal.

  • Have you ever seen a love-lies-bleeding flower in bloom?

  • The gardener planted love-lies-bleeding for its beautiful red flower spikes.

  • In some countries, love-lies-bleeding leaves are cooked and served as a nutritious vegetable.

  • The seeds of the love-lies-bleeding plant can be ground into a healthy cereal for breakfast.

Synonyms

Amaranthus caudatus
vslove-lies-bleeding
  • Specialized
9.9

A plant grown for its edible leaves and seeds used like grain

is the everyday common name for the same plant
princess feather
vslove-lies-bleeding
  • US
9.2

A yearly garden plant with long hanging red flower spikes

is the botanical species name rather than a regional or decorative name

Surface Forms

love-lies-bleeding singular
love-lies-bleedings plural

Etymology

The word love-lies-bleeding comes from an old poetic phrase made of love, lies, and bleeding, literally meaning 'love is lying hurt and bleeding'. The plant's long, hanging red flower ropes look like falling blood, so the name helps you remember its dramatic, drooping red flowers.