I can't help but think that doing this using what I might call "pseudo markup", and then processing that through a script to actually convert it into the ebook format would be an idea. Something like
Code:
<plant>
<genus>Abelmoschus</genus>
<specific>esculentus</specific>
<common>OKRA</common>
<description>is valued for its edible green fruits, said to be shaped like lady's fingers - one of its common names in British English.</description>
</plant>