Fig Glossary
Terminology, Abbreviations & Acronyms
In any particular field of study, there is a specific terminology (vocabulary) associated with it. Figs are no different. These terms can be a bit daunting for “newbies”. Some fig terms are even obscure to seasoned fig veterans. This glossary is designed to be a powerful resource for understanding terminology that is unique to the fig community.
Note: Use the search function to quickly go directly to your term or to find synonyms for the primary list.
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- Laciniate
Deeply cut or incised into narrow segments.
- Lamina
Blade or expanded part of leaf.
- Lanceolate
Much longer than broad.
- Latex
Essentially, fig sap. Often identified as the milky substance that leaks from the stem of a picked fig, indicating that it was picked too soon. Latex can be caustic to some, who have a natural allergy or intolerance. Or irritation can be acquired by frequent exposure. The UV of the sun can acerbate the irritation of latex on the skin. Latex can be difficult to remove via normal detergents. I've found orange oil is most effective for removing fig sap. See the Britannica article on Latex.
- Lenticals
Corky spots on twigs. On Ficus carica, these frequently encircle each node, and are often sites for the development of roots.
- Liana
Woody climber.
- Lignification
In the simplest of terms, to convert into wood or woody tissue.
- Linear
Very narrow.
- Lobe
A division of an organ such as a leaf; generally rounded.
- Local
Native; restricted to a certain place or region.
- Longue d'Aout Fig Family
One of the family of fig varieties that are grouped into categories of similar characteristics. Sometimes called Longue d'Aout Type. LdA produces large, early, melon-berry flavored figs and is fairly cold hardy.
- LSU Fig Collection
Louisiana State University: In the context of figs, this refers specifically to the LSU AgCenter fig-breeding program.
- Lusus
The change in the structure of a gene, resulting in a variant form that may be transmitted to subsequent generations, caused by the alteration of single base units in DNA, or the deletion, insertion, or rearrangement of larger sections of genes or chromosomes.
In botany, a sport or bud sport, traditionally called lusus, is a part of a plant that shows morphological differences from the rest of the plant. Sports may differ by foliage shape or color, flowers, fruit, or branch structure. The cause is generally thought to be a chance genetic mutation.
Wikipedia "Sport" Article - Lyrate
Lyre-shaped, upper part broad.