A genus of large columnar cacti, particularly the night-blooming cereus with a distinctive head-like crown of spines.
From Greek 'kephale' (head) + Latin 'cereus' (torch, candle). Named for the flame-like appearance of flowers and the head-shaped cluster of spines.
The night-blooming cereus is one of nature's most dramatic plants—its flowers open only once a year under moonlight and smell like vanilla, drawing nocturnal pollinators in a synchronized botanical performance that's been happening for millions of years.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.