We use the binomial system to identify our plants. This system, which refers to the genus and then species (with family name in parentheses) is far from being cast in stone, but it is still our most useful identifier. As genetic research has progressed, genus’ and species have been shifting around a lot and debates rage. Sometimes these names are problematic, like Asian plants named after German botanists. Sometimes they are helpful, for example all plants with the species name ‘officinalis’ were part of the original Western medicinal Pharmacopeia. One thing for sure, these names tell a lot about the stories of these plants and often a bit about their long relationships with us. They carry a lot of historical and cultural baggage. The link below lists the common names.
