Weigela

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A category of deciduous shrubs recognized for their showy, tubular flowers that are favored in garden design
2. A type of plant distinguished by its ornamental qualities and seasonal flowering, commonly seen in landscaping
3. A genus of flowering shrubs known for their attractive blooms and adaptability to various garden settings

Etymology: The genus name "Weigela" was given in honour of Christian Ehrenfried von Weigel, a German professor of chemistry and pharmacy at the University of Greifswald. Botanists used his name to label this group of flowering shrubs, and the plant's common name simply borrows that scientific label. The word therefore began as a tribute rather than a description of the plant. Weigel's name was Latinised into the genus form, and from there it passed into everyday English as a name for any shrub of this group. Gardeners now use it for a familiar garden plant prized for its trumpet-shaped blooms and its appearance in spring borders.