lotus tree

• Nom courant donné à divers arbres ou arbustes du genre Ziziphus, notamment Ziziphus lotus, originaires de la Méditerranée et de certaines régions d'Asie, connus pour leurs fruits sucrés et leurs associations mythologiques.

A common name for various trees or shrubs of the genus Ziziphus, particularly Ziziphus lotus, native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia, known for its sweet fruit and mythological associations.

1. Mythological treeC1formal

   A tree from Greek mythology whose fruit induced a dreamy, forgetful state in those who ate it.

   lotophage

   • In Homer's Odyssey, the Lotus Eaters offered the fruit of the lotus tree to Odysseus's men.
   • Eating the lotus tree's fruit made the sailors forget their desire to return home.
   • The lotus tree symbolizes lethargy and escapism in ancient literature.

2. Real plant speciesB2formal

   A common name for several species of trees or shrubs, such as Ziziphus lotus, found in the Mediterranean region.

   lotier (ou jujubier sauvage)

   • The lotus tree, Ziziphus lotus, produces small edible fruits.
   • This lotus tree is native to North Africa and the Middle East.
   • The wood of the lotus tree was used in ancient times for carving.