MOLE PLANT Meaning and
Definition
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Mole plant, scientifically known as Euphorbia lathyris, is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant that is native to Europe and North Africa. It belongs to the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae, and is commonly referred to as mole purging nut, caper spurge, gopher plant, or gopher spurge.
The mole plant is characterized by its erect, thick stems that can reach up to three feet in height. It features alternate, lanceolate-shaped leaves that are pale green and have a wavy margin. The plant produces small greenish-yellow flowers in compact clusters, which later develop into fruit capsules containing three seeds. These seeds, also known as mole nuts, are toxic and have a laxative effect, hence the name "purging nut."
The mole plant is often used as a natural deterrent for moles, voles, gophers, and other burrowing animals due to its pungent smell and toxic properties. It contains a toxic milky sap that can cause skin irritation, so caution is advised when handling the plant.
In addition to its repellent qualities, the mole plant has been historically used for medicinal purposes. Various parts of the plant, including the seeds and root, have been employed for their purgative and diuretic properties. However, it is important to note that the plant can be highly toxic if ingested, and its usage for medicinal purposes should be under the guidance of a trained herbalist or healthcare professional.
Overall, the mole plant is a distinctive herbaceous plant valued for its ability to deter burrowing animals and for its historical uses in traditional medicine.
Common Misspellings for MOLE PLANT
- nole plant
- kole plant
- jole plant
- mile plant
- mkle plant
- mlle plant
- mple plant
- m0le plant
- m9le plant
- moke plant
- mope plant
- mooe plant
- molw plant
- mols plant
- mold plant
- molr plant
- mol4 plant
- mol3 plant
- mole olant
Etymology of MOLE PLANT
The word "mole plant" is a compound noun made up of two separate words: "mole" and "plant".
1. Mole: The term "mole" in "mole plant" does not refer to the underground-dwelling mammal. Instead, it is derived from the Old English word "māl", which means a mark or a spot. Over time, this evolved into "mole". The sense used in the word "mole plant" is related to blemishes or beauty marks, as the flowers of the plant often have speckled or spotted petals.
2. Plant: The word "plant" derives from the Latin word "planta", which originally referred to the sole or the bottom of the foot. This is because the first plants people noticed were firmly rooted to the ground, like feet.
Similar spelling word for MOLE PLANT
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