hemerocallis: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Botanical
Quick answer
What does “hemerocallis” mean?
A genus of flowering plants in the family Asphodelaceae, commonly known as daylilies, because each flower typically lasts only one day.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A genus of flowering plants in the family Asphodelaceae, commonly known as daylilies, because each flower typically lasts only one day.
In gardening and horticulture, refers to the popular perennial plants valued for their colorful, trumpet-shaped flowers and hardiness. Sometimes used metaphorically to describe something beautiful but fleeting.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The common name 'daylily' is used identically in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral botanical/gardening term in both regions.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both UK and US English, confined to specialist contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “hemerocallis” in a Sentence
The Hemerocallis [verb: thrives/blooms/wilts] in [noun: sun/soil].She planted a row of Hemerocallis [prepositional phrase: along the fence/by the patio].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hemerocallis” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Hemerocallis display was spectacular.
American English
- We need more Hemerocallis cultivars for the border.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in the horticultural trade (e.g., 'We supply bare-root Hemerocallis').
Academic
Used in botanical texts, plant taxonomy, and horticultural research papers.
Everyday
Very rare. Only among gardening enthusiasts discussing specific plants.
Technical
Standard term in botany, horticulture, landscape design, and gardening manuals.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hemerocallis”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “hemerocallis”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hemerocallis”
- Mispronouncing it as 'hem-ero-CALL-is' (stress is on 'cal').
- Using it as a plural noun without adding '-es' (correct: Hemerocallises or Hemerocallis plants).
- Confusing it with true lilies (Lilium).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Although commonly called 'daylily', Hemerocallis is a different genus from true lilies (Lilium). They belong to different plant families.
Yes, they are generally considered hardy, low-maintenance perennials that adapt to a wide range of soil conditions, which contributes to their popularity in gardens.
Some species, like Hemerocallis fulva, have edible flower buds, petals, and tubers, and are used in some East Asian cuisines. However, correct identification is crucial as some plants may cause stomach upset.
The scientific name provides precise identification, especially important for gardeners and botanists discussing specific species or cultivars, as there are thousands of registered Hemerocallis hybrids.
A genus of flowering plants in the family Asphodelaceae, commonly known as daylilies, because each flower typically lasts only one day.
Hemerocallis is usually technical/botanical in register.
Hemerocallis: in British English it is pronounced /ˌhɛmərə(ʊ)ˈkalɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌhɛməroʊˈkælɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'HE MERely sees the CALLIs for one day' -> Hemerocallis flowers last just a day.
Conceptual Metaphor
A HEMEROCALLIS is BEAUTY IS EPHEMERAL (a common metaphor drawn from its one-day bloom).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary reason for the common name 'daylily' for plants in the genus Hemerocallis?