Microphyllus
/my-kroh-FIL-us/🏷️ Taxonomy●● Intermediate
Also known as: microphylla, microphyllum
A compound leaf epithet indicating the plant has notably small leaves — smaller than would be typical for the genus. Small-leaved plants often have a delicate, fine texture and are valued in rock gardens and for topiary. Appears as microphyllus (masculine), microphylla (feminine), or microphyllum (neuter).
Etymology
From Greek mikros (small) + phyllon (leaf), meaning "small-leaved."
Example
“Buxus microphylla (small-leaved box) and Hebe microphylla both have the characteristic tiny, dense leaves that give them a fine texture and make them ideal for intricate topiary and low hedges.”