african lilies crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "african lilies crossword" and need a quick solution or a deeper understanding, you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and helpful context to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "african lilies crossword" by Letter Count
10 Letters
AGAPANTHUS: The most common and specific botanical answer, referring to the genus Agapanthus, often known as African lilies.
6 Letters
LILIES: A more general term that might be used if a shorter word is required, referring to the broader family of lily-like plants, though Agapanthus is not a true lily.
More About "african lilies crossword"
African lilies, specifically Agapanthus, are a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers around the world due to their vibrant blooms and relatively low maintenance. Native to southern Africa, these perennial plants are known for their striking spherical clusters of blue, purple, or white flowers that emerge on tall stalks, often blooming in summer.
The botanical name, Agapanthus, is derived from the Greek words 'agape' (love) and 'anthos' (flower), literally meaning 'love flower'. This poetic name, combined with their distinctive appearance, makes them a memorable and sometimes challenging target for crossword puzzle constructors who love to use specific botanical terms.
When solving a crossword clue like "african lilies," considering both the precise botanical name (AGAPANTHUS) and more general terms (LILIES) based on the number of letters available is crucial. Crossword setters often play on common names versus scientific classifications to add layers of difficulty.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of boxes available for your answer. This immediately narrows down possibilities between specific terms like AGAPANTHUS and broader ones like LILIES.
- Consider Common Knowledge vs. Specifics: Some clues might hint at general knowledge, while others require very specific terms. "African lilies" walks the line, so be prepared for both the common name and the botanical one.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: Even if you don't know the exact answer, think about what the clue makes you think of. For "lilies," consider other flowers, colors, or regions associated with them.
- Use Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues. This is often the most effective way to confirm or deduce a challenging answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are African Lilies?
African Lilies refer to plants of the genus Agapanthus, native to southern Africa. Despite their common name, they are not true lilies (which belong to the Liliaceae family) but are part of the Amaryllidaceae family. They are known for their striking clusters of blue, purple, or white trumpet-shaped flowers.
Why is 'AGAPANTHUS' a common crossword answer for African lilies?
AGAPANTHUS is the scientific and most precise name for African Lilies, making it a distinctive and often sought-after answer for crossword constructors. Its unique spelling and specific botanical reference make it a good fit for clues requiring a precise, often longer, term.
Are African Lilies true lilies?
No, despite their common name, African Lilies (Agapanthus) are not true lilies. True lilies belong to the genus Lilium within the Liliaceae family. Agapanthus belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family, which also includes plants like daffodils and amaryllis. The 'lily' in their common name refers more to their visual resemblance or general appearance rather than their botanical classification.