Ericaceae

/ˌɛrɪˈkeɪsi/ noun

Definition

The large family of flowering plants that includes heather, blueberries, azaleas, and rhododendrons, characterized by simple leaves and specialized root systems.

Etymology

Scientific Latin family name derived from Erica (the heath genus) plus -aceae (the standard botanical suffix for plant families).

Kelly Says

Ericaceae plants are remarkable because they partner with special fungi that help them survive in poor, acidic soils—this relationship is so important that some ericaceous plants can't grow without their fungal partners.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.