Definition

Referring to plants that develop or bloom late, or that remain closed while gradually releasing seeds.

Example

The serotinous cones of the pine tree only open after a fire, allowing seeds to disperse in a nutrient-rich environment.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how some pine trees are serotinous?

Yeah, they take forever to release their seeds, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how nature works that way.

I love learning about different plant adaptations like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Serotinous → It is formed from "serotinus" (from Latin, meaning late or delayed) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of or possessing). The word "serotinous" describes something that is characterized by or occurring late, particularly in relation to the timing of flowering or fruiting in plants.

Memory Tip

Think of 'late' ('serotinus') to remember that 'serotinous' refers to something that happens later than usual.

Visually Confused Words