Epilobe

/ˈɛpɪloʊb/ noun

Definition

An enlarged flap or lobe-like projection that forms the upper part of the labellum in certain orchid flowers.

Etymology

From Greek 'epi-' (upon) + Latin 'lobus' (lobe), a botanical term describing the extra lobe-like structure on orchid flower parts.

Kelly Says

Orchids are shape-shifters of the flower world, and the epilobe is one of their tricks—it's a fancy landing platform for insects, and no two orchid species look exactly alike because they've evolved epilobes in millions of different ways!

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