lechuguilla

1 9.9

A small spiky plant that grows in North American deserts like the Chihuahuan Desert

noun
/ˌlɛtʃʊˈɡiːjə/

Specialized

: lechuguilla

In the Chihuahuan Desert, lechuguilla thrives despite the harsh conditions.
sharp lechuguilla

Examples

Look at the lechuguilla!
Hikers are often careful to avoid the sharp leaves of the lechuguilla while walking in the desert.
The lechuguilla is well adapted to survive in the harsh conditions of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Researchers studied the roots of the lechuguilla to understand how it conserves water.
The lechuguilla thrives in arid conditions.
The sharp, spiky leaves of the lechuguilla make it a challenging plant to navigate.
Many desert animals rely on lechuguilla for shelter and food during the dry season.

Surface Forms

lechuguilla singular

lechuguillas plural

Etymology

Lechuguilla comes from the Spanish word lechuga ('lettuce') plus the ending -illa ('little'), so it literally means 'little lettuce'. The plant grows a small, round group of leaves like a tiny lettuce—often with sharp points—so the name helps you picture this small, spiky desert plant.