Rhodiola
/rɒˈdiːələ/noun
A genus of stonecrops found chiefly in northern and Arctic parts of Europe and Asia; (also rhodiola) a plant of this genus, especially R. rosea, a yellow-flowered plant whose roots smell of roses when dried or bruised; (also) an extract of this, used especially in herbal medicine. Also called roseroot, Aaron's Rod.
- Valid publication of the genus name: Linnaeus Species plantarum (1753) II. 1035. The taxonomic status of Rhodiola is sometimes disputed: it is considered by some authors to form part of the genus Sedum..
Origin
Late 18th century; earliest use found in James Jenkinson (?1739–1808). From scientific Latin Rhodiola, genus name (earlier in post-classical Latin, Linnaeus Flora Lapponica 304, Hortus Cliffortianus 470) from post-classical Latin rhodius rose-like (from ancient Greek ῥόδον rose + classical Latin -ius, suffix forming adjectives) + -ola.