espino

Espino is a Spanish noun that can refer to the hawthorn plant and to thorns in general. In botany, espino refers to shrubs and small trees of the genus Crataegus in the Rosaceae family. Hawthorns are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and are used for hedges, ornamental planting, and traditional medicine. The term espino derives from Latin spina, meaning thorn, and entered Spanish through Old Spanish forms.

Toponymy: Espino is used as a place name in the Spanish-speaking world. There are towns and localities named Espino in Spain and in several Latin American countries. In each case the name reflects the historical presence of hawthorn or thorny vegetation in the area.

Surname: Espino is also a surname of Spanish origin. It is found in many Spanish-speaking countries and among communities with Spanish heritage. Notable individuals bearing the surname Espino appear in various fields and contexts.

See also: Espina.