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Flower Glossary

Flowers can do anything from brightening up a dark room to adding appeal to a home that is for sale. However, novice gardeners and experienced greenhouse experts alike often run across unfamiliar varieties. In these cases, a flower glossary can be a useful item.

Even within a particular species of flowers, varieties and hybrids might require different care. People new to growing flowers might want to know the definition of commonly used terms. Flower aficionados might want to join a society or enter a contest, making it important to know the proper terminology in regards to plant and flower growth and care. Therefore, finding and using glossaries that relate to particular kinds of flowers, the care of flowers, or just flowers in general will be helpful.

Flower Resources on yourDictionary.com

The YourDictionary website provides a specialty dictionary department that includes a section on botany. References to general botany along with specific areas are all listed. Persons with questions regarding particular flowers should visit these websites, listed in the botany dictionaries section:

  • African Violet Glossary: Visit this site for a complete glossary of the various terms related to the African violet, including pests, chemicals, and fertilizers. Links to more detailed information for many of the terms can be found, along with links to other terms that are defined in the glossary.
  • American Rhododendron Society Plant Glossary: The Society provides a short glossary of various terms related to rhododendron growth, varieties, and more. Definitions are basic and easy to understand.
  • Botanical Glossary: Search by the common or botanical name. Although a search may result in the option of purchasing seeds, general information is listed about the flower, along with germination, foliage, and type of plant.
  • Glossary of Orchid Terminology: Find out more about orchids by searching this database. It includes abbreviations, such as JOGA (Japanese Orchid Growers Association) and RHS (Royal Horticulture Society).
  • Glossary of Botanical Terms: With over 4,000 terms related to flowers, growing, and landscaping, this site is a wonderful resource for anyone interested in botany. Hints for optimal searching are included under “Notes.”

In addition to the references aforementioned, YourDictionary provides links to botanical translation dictionaries like the Chinese-English Botany Glossary and English-German Online Botany Dictionary. These can be especially useful when working with a foreign flower or when entering a competition in another country.

Other Flower Glossaries Online

A number of other dictionaries, both specialty and general, can be found online. Visit these websites to find the definitions and explanations of flower-related terminology:

  • Phillip’s 1-800-FLORALS Glossary of Flowers: A large selection of popular flowers, like amaryllis, gardenia, snap dragons, and tulips are found in this image glossary. Care information is not listed, but the pictorials provide good references for those just looking for a particular species.
  • Illustrated Glossary of Flowers from Floral Style: Eighteen pages of flowers are included in this glossary. Included are photos, height, description, vase life, instructions for cutting, and planting information.
  • Teleflora Flower Names and Flower Images: The popular flower service has pages of their customers’ favorite flowers for floral arrangements, listed in alphabetical order. Just images are shown; no descriptions or other information is given.
  • Milwaukee School of Flower Design Flower and Foliage Glossary: This short glossary lists popular flowers and foliage used in floral creations. Some varieties have a short list below their names, describing colors and season they are available.
  • Wildflower Glossary: Unlike many of the previously discussed glossaries, this is one dedicated to wildflowers, not those grown for home or retail use. It discusses the parts of wildflowers in detail, then goes on to describe the difference between annuals, perennials, and biennials. Under the heading “Wildflower naming and terminology” is a list of various related terms. Click on links, when provided, to be taken to another webpage with more information.
  • Flower Names and Meanings: This short listing provides a little information regarding well-known flowers. Included are the commonly understood meanings, such as using red roses to mean love and asters to convey the feelings of charm and patience.

A flower glossary can help not only those interested in growing and arranging flowers, but those who simply want to buy the best. Just about anyone can benefit from a little flower knowledge, from landscapers to brides alike.

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