At 10:08 AM 7/05/2012, you wrote: >Does anyone know who coined the word geophyte? >And if so, how was the word defined then? Jim, A quick search for "origin of the word Geophyte" on google came up with this link (amongst many others).... http://www.memidex.com/geophytes/ In the origins bit further down, they say that the word is ancient greek, derived from "Geo" (Earth) + "Phyte" (plant).... so loosely, Earthplant. This origin is mentioned in various sites under that search. That a help? Cheers. Paul T. Canberra, Australia - USDA Zone Equivalent approx. 8/9 Min winter temp -8 or -9°C. Max summer temp 40°C. Thankfully, maybe once or twice a year only. Growing an eclectic collection of plants from all over the world including Aroids, Crocus, Cyclamen, Erythroniums, Fritillarias, Galanthus, Irises, Liliums, Trilliums (to name but a few) and just about anything else that doesn't move!!