Achimenes

/ˌækɪˈmiːniz/ noun

Definition

A genus of tropical plants with colorful flowers, commonly grown as houseplants.

Etymology

From Greek 'a-' (not) + 'cheimoneuein' (to suffer from cold). The name references that these plants don't tolerate cold temperatures, which was important for early botanists cataloging tropical species.

Kelly Says

Achimenes are sometimes called 'magic flowers' because they mysteriously disappear in winter and return in spring from their rhizomes—ancient gardeners thought they possessed supernatural properties!

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