Epiphyllous

/ˌɛpɪˈfɪləs/ adjective

Definition

Growing on or attached to the surface of a leaf, or describing organisms and structures found living on living leaves.

Etymology

From Greek 'epi-' (upon) + 'phyllon' (leaf) + '-ous' (full of, characterized by). The standard botanical adjective for anything living on leaf surfaces.

Kelly Says

Epiphyllous fungi and lichens don't hurt the leaf—they're just squatters catching rainwater and nutrients while the leaf does photosynthesis, a peaceful coexistence that benefits both organisms.

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