epiphyllum

[ep-uh-fil-uh m]

noun

any of several mostly epiphytic cacti of the genus Epiphyllum, native to tropical America, having large, fragrant white flowers.

Origin of epiphyllum

< New Latin, equivalent to Greek epi- epi- + Greek phýllon leaf; so called from the leaflike branches on which the flower grows

Also called orchid cactus.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for epiphyllum

Historical Examples of epiphyllum

The Epiphyllum, or Lobster Cactus, is one of the best of the family, easy of culture.
The Practical Garden-Book
C. E. Hunn
The similarity of its branches to Epiphyllum led to its being included in that genus by Haworth.
Cactus Culture For Amateurs
W. Watson
They are often called Epiphyllum, which name is, however, properly restricted to the group next to be mentioned.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 4, Part 4
Various