Grammatophyllum

/ˌɡræmətəˈfɪləm/ noun

Definition

A genus of large tropical orchids with prominent leaf-like structures; a real biological genus name meaning 'written leaf'.

Etymology

From 'grammat-' (Greek 'gramma,' writing or letter) plus 'phyllum' (Greek 'phyllon,' leaf), literally meaning 'written leaf' or 'marked leaf,' named for the distinctive spotted or marked patterns on the leaves.

Kelly Says

This is a real orchid genus, and its name is a perfect example of how scientists combine Greek and Latin roots to create technical names—the leaves look like they have writing on them, so botanists named it accordingly!

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