1. needle-shaped crystals of calcium oxalate found in plant cells
Usage: botanical; plural form

Examples

• The raphides in the plant’s leaves serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores.
• When chewed, plants containing raphides can cause irritation to the mouth and throat.
• Botanists identified raphides in the microscopic examination of the leaf tissue.
• The sharp raphides make certain houseplants toxic to pets if ingested.
• Calcium oxalate raphides are commonly found in members of the arum family.