Caudex (Noun)
Meaning 1
Persistent thickened stem of a herbaceous perennial plant.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The plant's caudex was protected from freezing temperatures by a layer of mulch during the winter months.
- Over time, the caudex of the euphorbia plant became woody and developed a interesting, twisted shape.
- In tropical climates, the caudex of some species of yucca can grow quite large and provide habitat for small animals.
- The gardener carefully inspected the caudex of each new agave planting for signs of damage or disease.
- As the succulent plant grew, its caudex became a sturdy base that supported the increasingly heavy foliage.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
Woody stem of palms and tree ferns.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The cycad had a large caudex that was covered with old leaf bases.
- In older palms, the caudex becomes more prominent and forms a distinct trunk.
- Tree ferns have a caudex that resembles a massive, fibrous column.
- The caudex of a mature palm can grow up to several meters tall.
- From the base of the caudex, numerous adventitious roots sprout outwards.