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fraxinella

noun
frax·​i·​nel·​la | \ ËŒfrak-sÉ™-ˈne-lÉ™ How to pronounce fraxinella (audio) \

Definition of fraxinella

: a Eurasian perennial herb (Dictamnus albus) of the rue family with flowers that emit an aromatic flammable vapor in hot weather

— called also gas plant

Did You Know?

Fraxinella doesn't sound all that exciting-its name comes from the Latin word fraxinus, meaning "ash tree," because its leaves resemble those of an ash tree-but two of its alternate names hint at what's unusual about the plant. Fraxinella is also called "gas plant" and "burning bush" because on a hot summer day the flowers emit a strong vapor that can be ignited. While fraxinella is native to Eurasia, Americans may see it in local gardens-so beware and keep sources of flame away from these perennials.

First Known Use of fraxinella

1578, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for fraxinella

New Latin, diminutive of Latin fraxinus ash tree — more at birch

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More from Merriam-Webster on fraxinella

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with fraxinella

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fraxinella

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