Taxonomy Flashcards
Classification
Fitting plants into the basic 7 tier hierarchical system developed by Linnaeus.
Cultivar (Cultivated Variety)
Selected by man for unique traits. Traits maintained via asexual reproduction.
Cultivar Group
A selection of cultivars that share a defined characteristics.
subsp. or ssp.
Written after binomial and before subspecies epithet, not italicized
Subspecies
var. or v.
Written after binomial and before variety epithet, not italicized
Variety
Binomial
Genus & Specific Epithet aka species name
Common Name
One plant may have many of these and many plants may share one of these.
Genus
A subdivision of family in the classification of plants.
Character
Morphological feature of a plant. Reproductive parts are more conservative. Focus on distinct and unique features.
Family
A sub-order in the classification of plants. Typically ends in -aceae.
Nomenclature
Designating the plant with its correct scientific name.
Annual
A plant that completes its life cycle, from germination to the production of seeds, within one growing season, and then dies.
Hybrid
Cross between plants in different genera or species
Dichotomous key
A tool for plant or animal identification. Consists of a series of paired statements that move from general to specific descriptions.
Genus ‘Cultivar Epithet’
Genus c.v. ‘Cultivar Epithet’
Correct notation for cultivars from hybrids
Genus species (Cultivar Group)
Genus species c.v. (Cultivar Group)
Correct notation for cultivar groups
f.
Written after binomial and before form epithet, not italicized
Forma
Genus × species
Genus × species
Correct notation for interspecific hybrid
× Genus species
× Genus species
Correct notation for intergeneric hybrid
Species
A natural group of plants composed of similar individuals which can produce similar offspring; usually including several minor variations.
Specific Epithet
The second element in the Latin binomial name of a species, which follows the generic name (Genus) and distinguishes the species from others in the same genus.
Key
A tool for plant or animal identification.
Genus species ‘Cultivar Epithet’
Genus species c.v. ‘Cultivar Epithet’
Correct notations for cultivars
Variety
Selected by environmental pressures. Traits maintained via sexual propagation.
PP#000
Plant Patent
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™ or ®
Trademark
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Genus species ‘Cultivar Epithet’ Authority
Genus species c.v. ‘Cultivar Epithet’ Authority
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Difference between ® and ™
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