lotus tree

• 指枣属（Ziziphus）的多种乔木或灌木，尤指地中海和亚洲部分地区所产的莲枣（Ziziphus lotus），以甜味果实和神话传说著称。

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.

   神话中的树

   • 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.

   枣树

   • 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.