Nomenclature and Taxonomy

Introduction to Nomenclature and Taxonomy

The Department of Botany has been closely involved in the development of the International Code of Nomenclature for Cultivated Plants through the Horticultural Taxonomy Group (Hortax). While clarifying areas of confusion in the naming of plants, this work also serves the world of horticulture through the stabilisation of names. The annual RHS Plant Finder is an accessible product of the nomenclatural work of the Society, and is derived from the developing RHS Horticultural Database.

To view a leaflet describing the RHS role in plant nomenclature click here (32KB)

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The RHS Advisory Panel on Nomenclature and Taxonomy provides a forum for the development of standard nomenclature in conjunction with the Wisley botanists. The work of the Advisory Panel is described in:

Brickell, C & Trehane, P (1997). The RHS Advisory Panel on Nomenclature and Taxonomy. The New Plantsman 4(2): 115-119.

Leslie, A C (1997). The RHS Advisory Panel on Nomenclature and Taxonomy: part 2. The New Plantsman 4(3): 170-174.