Dodonaea

/ˌdɒdoʊˈneɪə/ noun

Definition

A genus of plants, shrubs, and small trees of the family Sapindaceae, found in warm regions worldwide.

Etymology

Named in honor of Dodona, the ancient Greek sanctuary of Zeus. The plant genus was named after the historical site, following Linnaean naming traditions. The scientific name preserves the ancient place name.

Kelly Says

Scientists named an entire plant genus after an ancient Greek oracle—imagine discovering a plant and deciding to honor a 3,000-year-old prophecy site. It shows how classical learning permeated scientific naming conventions.

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