Virgilia divaricata

9.9

Fast growing tree with a round top and fragrant white to pink flowers grown in gardens

noun

Specialized

: Virgilia divaricata

The avenue was lined with Virgilia divaricata, their rosy blossoms creating a stunning display in early summer.

Examples

We planted a Virgilia divaricata near the patio, and its shade is now a favorite spot in the garden.
Gardeners favor Virgilia divaricata for its quick growth and attractive fragrant flowers.
The Virgilia divaricata blooms beautifully in spring.
Many gardeners prefer Virgilia divaricata for its fragrant flowers.
Gardeners favor Virgilia divaricata for its quick growth and attractive fragrant flowers.
The avenue was lined with Virgilia divaricata, their rosy blossoms creating a stunning display in early summer.
We planted a Virgilia divaricata near the patio, and its shade is now a favorite spot in the garden.

Surface Forms

Virgilia divaricata singular

Virgilia divaricatae plural

Morphology

Virgilia + divaricata

This is a Latin binomial (taxonomic) name rather than a compositional English phrase; the species epithet 'divaricata' is not an English word and is not interpretable by a B1 learner. Although 'Virgilia' names a genus of trees, knowing that alone does not let learners derive the specific description (fast-growing, round-headed ornamental tree), so the phrase functions as an opaque, lexicalized scientific name.

Etymology

Virgilia divaricata is the plant's scientific name. Virgilia is the group name and divaricata comes from a word meaning 'spreading'. The name paints a picture of a round tree with wide branches and sweet-smelling flowers, so it fits this fast-growing tree often planted in gardens.