ANAPHALIS JAVANICA Meaning and
Definition
-
Anaphalis javanica, also known as Javanese Edelweiss, is a species of perennial flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Java, an island in Indonesia, hence its common name. The plant is characterized by its distinctive appearance, with white or pale yellow flowers clustered in dense heads and covered by a woolly texture. It typically grows in alpine meadows and higher elevations, often in rocky or mountainous regions.
The leaves of Anaphalis javanica are narrow and elongated, with a pale green color. The plant typically reaches a height of around 30 to 60 centimeters, and its flowers bloom from mid to late summer. The flower heads of Anaphalis javanica are composed of numerous small, tubular florets surrounded by a series of overlapping bracts. These bracts are usually covered in woolly hairs, providing the flowers with a unique, fuzzy appearance.
Anaphalis javanica is highly valued for its aesthetic qualities and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and rockeries. Its distinctive flowers and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for adding visual interest to landscapes. Additionally, the plant holds cultural significance in regions where it is native, with traditional uses in herbal medicine and religious ceremonies.
In conclusion, Anaphalis javanica is a species of flowering plant native to Java, Indonesia. It is characterized by its white or pale yellow, woolly flowers and narrow, pale green leaves. It is cultivated for its ornamental value and has cultural significance in its native regions.
Etymology of ANAPHALIS JAVANICA
The etymology of the word "Anaphalis javanica" can be broken down as follows:
1. Anaphalis: The genus name "Anaphalis" is derived from the Greek words "ana" meaning "above" or "beyond" and "phallo" meaning "to shine" or "to be white". This name is presumed to refer to the white or silvery appearance of the plants in this genus.
2. Javanica: The species name "javanica" indicates that the plant is native to Java, an island in Indonesia. The term "javanica" is derived from Latin and is used to denote anything relating to the island of Java.
