DRACUNCULUS VULGARIS Meaning and
Definition
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Dracunculus vulgaris, commonly known as the Dragon Arum, is a perennial, herbaceous plant species belonging to the family Araceae. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is primarily found in countries such as Greece, Turkey, Italy, and Cyprus.
The Dracunculus vulgaris plant features a tall, erect stem that can reach heights of up to 1 meter (3 feet). Its lance-shaped, dark green leaves are deeply divided into lobes, giving them a distinctive palm-like appearance. At the top of the stem, a striking, tubular inflorescence emerges, called the spadix, which is surrounded by a large, purple to burgundy-colored, funnel-shaped bract called the spathe. The spathe emits a pungent odor that attracts insects for pollination. The flowering period occurs in late spring to early summer.
Dracunculus vulgaris is known for its unique, visually captivating flowers, as well as its unpleasant smell, which resembles rotting flesh. It is dioecious, meaning that individual plants produce either male or female flowers, with the female flowers bearing red berries as fruits.
Cultivation of Dracunculus vulgaris is popular for its ornamental value, as it provides a dramatic and exotic addition to gardens or landscapes. Despite its foul odor, it is a sought-after plant by enthusiasts. However, caution should be exercised while handling the plant, as it contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Common Misspellings for DRACUNCULUS VULGARIS
- sracunculus vulgaris
- xracunculus vulgaris
- cracunculus vulgaris
- fracunculus vulgaris
- rracunculus vulgaris
- eracunculus vulgaris
- deacunculus vulgaris
- ddacunculus vulgaris
- dfacunculus vulgaris
- dtacunculus vulgaris
- d5acunculus vulgaris
- d4acunculus vulgaris
- drzcunculus vulgaris
- drscunculus vulgaris
- drwcunculus vulgaris
- drqcunculus vulgaris
- draxunculus vulgaris
- dravunculus vulgaris
- drafunculus vulgaris
Etymology of DRACUNCULUS VULGARIS
The word "Dracunculus vulgaris" has roots in Latin and ancient Greek:
1. "Dracunculus" comes from the Latin word "draco", meaning "dragon". This term is derived from Greek "drákōn", also meaning "dragon". It was named so due to the plant's resemblance to a dragon's tail or snake-like appearance.
2. "Vulgaris" is a Latin word meaning "common" or "ordinary". This term is used in taxonomy to indicate that the species being referred to is the most common or widespread within its genus.
So, the etymology behind "Dracunculus vulgaris" suggests that the name was given to denote the common or ordinary species with characteristics resembling a dragon or serpent.
