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Hirsutus

/hir-SOO-tus/
🏷️ Taxonomy●● Intermediate

Also known as: hirsuta, hirsutum

A texture epithet describing a surface covered in stiff, coarse, somewhat bristly hairs that feel rough or scratchy to the touch. Distinct from pubescens (softly hairy) and tomentosus (densely woolly). Appears as hirsutus (masculine), hirsuta (feminine), or hirsutum (neuter).

Etymology

From Latin hirsutus, meaning "rough," "shaggy," or "bristly," related to horrere (to stand on end).

Example

Geranium hirsutum and Vicia hirsuta both have the coarse, scratchy surface texture that makes hirsute plants feel noticeably rough when handled.

Example Plant

🌿Vicia hirsuta