fritillary etymology

Etymology:

  • From Latin fritillus, the diminutive of fritillum, a dice-box that resembled the tessellated pattern on the flowers of some fritillaries.

Meaning and Origin:

  • A fritillary is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the lily family (Liliaceae).
  • The name "fritillary" refers to the checkered or tessellated pattern found on the flowers of many species.
  • The term was first used by Pliny the Elder in the 1st century AD to describe a plant with a checkered pattern on its leaves.
  • The most commonly known species of fritillary is the Fritillaria meleagris (also known as the snake's head fritillary), which is native to Europe and parts of Asia.
  • Fritillaries are found worldwide, but are particularly common in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
  • They are characterized by their bell-shaped flowers, which typically have six petals and are often adorned with a checkered or tessellated pattern.
  • Most fritillaries are herbaceous perennials that grow from bulbs.
  • They prefer well-drained soil and full to partial sun exposure.
  • Fritillaries are popular garden plants and have been cultivated for centuries.

fritillary relate terms

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