Plant Names Explained: Botanical Terms and Their Meaning

by Julia Britton (Compiler)

Precise naming of plants is essential to be able to identify them accurately and most gardeners have at least some knowledge of botanical Latin. But a plant's full botanical name does much more than give it a unique label. The name can often tell you where the plant originated, who discovered it, what color it is, and much else besides. What's more, the name is recognizable, and can be used and understood anywhere in the world. So wherever you are you can identify specific plants. Plant Names Explained is an essential and fascinating guide to the subject. What may seem at first a dry but necessary convention is revealed to be a way of opening up the intriguing world of plants and plantsmen. Based on William T Stearn's Botanical Latin, the classic work on the subject, Plant Names Explained is much more than an indispensable practical guide and superb reference book--it is an engrossing read. Published in partnership with Horticulture, America's most respected gardening magazine

Genres: Nature

224 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2005

Reviews

[Aimee]

A book that must seem hopelessly dry and long-winded for anyone who has never cared to wonder about plant names and their rich histories. For those who grow excitable and slightly dreamy-eyed at these connections, it is a veritable goldmine.

[Plant Girl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as informative as I thought it might be, but it is quite helpful for learning more about the latin names of plants. Good resource.