On one side we have Team Latin. I've met people who had no clue what the common name was for a plant, they always used Latin. I've met some who knew common names, but refused to use them, believing that they were doing their part to educate the public with their use of Latin. I've met some who just liked to look smart, and used Latin for that!
On the other side is Team Common. For some, Latin is just too much trouble. For others, it is just too difficult to remember or pronounce. For still others it just isn't important for them. I once met a lady who didn't even know the common names of her plants- she only knew the cultivar names! That was a new one for me, but she was so frustrated and even irritated with me for not knowing which plant she was referring to!
I'm mostly Team Latin, although I do pitch hit for Team Common every now and then, mostly when the latin name just isn't going to roll off of my tounge or if I'm talking with someone who doesn't at all know Latin names. |
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100% latin names, all the way. It's the only way to be able to communicate without confusion what the plant is! And it's just as easy to learn the name "Brugmansia" as it is "Angel's Trumpet." There are very, very few plants that I will refer to using its common name. When in conversation with other gardeners, though, I will often use the common name so that I don't appear too stuffy. :) |
What about you? Which Team are you on?
Thread Title | Last Reply | Replies |
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Latin when possible by Bubbles | Aug 28, 2015 8:53 AM | 66 |
Yes, I don't want to appear stuffy. by Seedfork | May 1, 2014 4:30 PM | 2 |
Dahlianut words by Aguane | Oct 3, 2011 7:55 AM | 1 |