African lily, also known as Agapanthus, is a flowering plant that is native to southern Africa. This plant is known for its striking beauty and is often used in gardens and landscaping. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of African lily.
Definitions
African lily is a perennial plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is characterized by its long, narrow leaves and tall stalks that bear clusters of blue or white flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and it blooms in the summer months.
Origin
African lily is native to southern Africa, where it grows in a range of habitats, from grasslands to rocky outcroppings. The plant was first introduced to Europe in the 17th century and has since become a popular garden plant around the world.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, African lily is defined as “a plant of the genus Agapanthus, native to southern Africa, that has showy blue or white flowers borne in umbels on long stalks.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines African lily as “a plant of the genus Agapanthus, native to southern Africa, having long, narrow leaves and clusters of blue or white flowers.”
Associations
African lily is often associated with beauty, grace, and elegance. It is also a symbol of love and friendship, making it a popular choice for wedding bouquets and other special occasions.
In some cultures, African lily is believed to have medicinal properties and is used to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory infections, fever, and headaches.
Synonyms
Some common synonyms for African lily include Agapanthus, Blue African Lily, and Lily of the Nile.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms for African lily, as it is a plant species and not a concept or idea.
The same root words
The word “Agapanthus” is derived from the Greek words “agape” meaning love, and “anthos” meaning flower. This reflects the plant’s association with love and affection.
Example Sentences
- The African lily in my garden is in full bloom and looks stunning.
- I bought a bouquet of African lilies for my friend’s wedding.
- The herbalist recommended African lily tea to help with my cold symptoms.
- The Blue African Lily is one of my favorite plants to grow in my garden.
- The Lily of the Nile is another common name for African lily.